16 Jul 2022 | 10:28 AM UTC
Pakistan: Heightened security for by-elections in Punjab, July 17
Heightened security for by-elections in Punjab, Pakistan, July 17. Violence, and unrest are possible.
Event
Officials will deploy additional security personnel during by-elections in Punjab Province July 17. The election is for 20 seats in the provincial assembly. The US Consulate General in Lahore has issued a related security alert noting that officials have warned of potential election-related violence on July 17 and that thousands of security personnel will be deployed to safeguard the poll, including in Lahore. In Lahore, four constituencies will be contested:
Garhi Shahu, Dharampura, Gulberg, Jail Road
Johar Town
Nishtar Town, Walton, Ferozepur Road, Cavalry, Kot Lakhpat, Kainchi
Wapda Town, Valencia Town, Township, College Road, and PIA Road
Other by-elections will be held in PP-7 Rawalpindi, PP-83 Khushab, PP-90 Bhakkar, PP-97 Faisalabad, PP-125 and PP-127 Jhang, PP-140 Sheikhupura, PP-202 Sahiwal, PP-217 Multan, PP-224 and PP-228 Lodhran, PP-237 Bahawalnagar, PP-272 and PP-273 Muzaffargarh, PP-282 Layyah and PP-288 Dera Ghazi Khan.
Police will likely deploy to impacted polling stations, constituencies, and Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) offices across the province. Officials will almost certainly deploy to any gatherings that occur. Clashes between rival activists are possible, particularly once results are released or if allegations of fraud are made. Localized road travel and business operation disruptions are likely in areas where by-elections are being held.
Advice
Avoid all polling stations, concentrations of security personnel, ECP offices and large gatherings on election day. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates. Heed the instructions of security officials. Plan for localized ground travel delays.
