Peshawar - Visit of Prime Minister Imran Khan to the provincial capital on Wednesday drew a mixed reaction, with some calling it a violation of election code of conduct and government circles describing it as a part of official duties of the premier.
Leaders of various political parties criticised the visit of the Prime Minister as they said it might influence the elections in terms of electioneering when the local government elections are just around the corner.
After getting to know about the planned visit of the premier, the Election Commission of Pakistan had already issued a letter to the PM about legal proceedings that might be taken against him in case he violated the elections code of conduct by visiting Peshawar.
The letter mentioned that after the announcement of the election schedule, President, PM, Governor, CM, NA Speaker or Chairman Senate and assembly, federal or provincial cabinet member or any public office holder cannot visit an area to announce or inaugurate any development project or campaign for any candidate, when the schedule for the local government elections has already been announced.
“You are advised not to violate any provision of the code of conduct and instructions by the ECP, otherwise legal proceedings will be initiated against you under Sections-233 and 234 of the Elections Act 2017,” stated the letter issued to the PM by the regional election commissioner in Peshawar.
Meanwhile, KP government spokesman Mohammad Ali Saif issued a statement on the PM visit and termed it a part of the official duties of the PM, who attended a ceremony at the Governor’s House.
In a statement, he said Imran Khan didn’t attend any election rally or public meeting during his visit. He said the government respects the ECP and its codes.
It merits a mention here that the LG polls are being held in two phases. In the first phase, the polls will be conducted in 19 districts on December 19, 2021 while the same would be conducted in the rest of the KP districts in January.
During the visit, Imran Khan launched Micro Health Insurance Programme, under which 7.5 million families in KP would be given free medical services worth Rs1 million.