Lahore High Court Bar Association elections set for February 28
Pakistan
Lahore High Court Bar Association elections on February 28 with 32,488 voters; strict code of conduct bans banners, SMS campaigns, and violations may trigger disqualification.
LAHORE (Muhammad Ashfaq) - The annual elections of the Lahore High Court Bar Association will be held on February 28, with 32,488 registered voters set to cast their ballots under a biometric system.
The Chairman of the Election Board has issued a comprehensive code of conduct.
A total of 18 candidates are contesting for four seats, including the office of president.
Authorities have decided to strictly enforce the code of conduct prior to the elections.
During the campaign period, a complete ban has been imposed on banners, flex boards, stickers, and all other printed promotional material. Candidates will only be allowed to use visiting cards without photographs for campaigning. No advertising material may be displayed within court premises or bar rooms.
Election Board Chairman, Lehrasib Gondal, warned that candidates violating the code of conduct or resorting to celebratory firing after results will face disqualification and criminal cases.
Deputy Chairman Haseebullah Khan stated that all resources are being utilized to ensure free and transparent elections. He added that SMS-based campaigning has been banned, though campaigning through WhatsApp will be permitted.
Public statements or press conferences against rival candidates have also been prohibited. Organizing religious, political, or social gatherings, hosting dinners, rallies, or corner meetings during the campaign period has been strictly banned.
Each candidate will be allowed no more than five lawyers to accompany them during election activities. Violations may result in fines ranging from Rs200,000 to Rs600,000, while repeat violations could lead to a Rs1.5 million fine or disqualification.
Under the code, supporter meetings may serve only a single dish and one dessert; violations could result in disqualification.
Candidates may establish separate election offices from February 25 to 27, where only one flex or banner with a photograph will be permitted. Gatherings or forming queues to solicit votes within the High Court premises and bar areas is strictly prohibited. Campaigning must end 24 hours before polling.
A tough contest is expected for the presidency between Raja Aamir of the Ahsan Bhoon Group and Babar Murtaza of the Hamid Khan Group.
