91997E0511

WRITTEN QUESTION E-0511/97 by Jannis Sakellariou (PSE) to the Council (19 February 1997)

Subject: Elections in Pakistan

1. Can the Council confirm that the elections in Pakistan on 3 February 1997 were conducted in accordance with democratic principles and were general, equal and free?

2. Was participation by all parties, including for example the Mohajir Quami Movement (MQM), ensured, and if not, why not?

Answer (16 May 1997)

In the report of the European Union Election Observer Group on the National and Provincial Assembly Elections held in Pakistan on 3 February 1997, the following conclusions are drawn:

1. The European Union Observer group, which was formed only in the last few days of the election campaign, was able to visit only a small percentage of the polling stations. The group concluded on the basis of their observations that, in general, the poll was conducted in accordance with the rules and in an equitable manner, and that the results reflected the wishes of those who voted. However serious deficiencies, in the electoral register and the identification of voters, excluded a significant proportion of those who had the right to vote. The shortcomings observed, and the serious incidents reported in a small proportion of voting stations, did not in the view of the observer group alter the final outcome. They should, however, be object of follow-up action by the Electoral Commission. The observer group believe that, on the whole, voters were properly served by the election officials. Overall, the Election Commission, their polling station officials, the parties, the security forces and the voters contributed to a calm atmosphere and an orderly election.

2. Voting was conducted, in general, in a calm atmosphere. There were some serious exceptions witnessed by observers in Baluchistan Province and reported in Karachi. Overall voting procedures were orderly, with voting officials making brave efforts to ensure transparent voting procedures in frequently difficult conditions in terms of space and/or facilities available.

In Karachi, the observer terms received credible reports of serious instances of intimidation, and the possible collusion of the security forces in them. These instances appear to be targeted at preventing MQM(A) party agents from being present in certain polling stations, and discouraging MQM(A) supporters from casting their votes. The observer group believe that the authorities should carry out a thorough investigation.

The Council instances will raise these issues in their institutionalised contacts with the Pakistani Government.