The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is reportedly set to conduct a scrutiny of the service records of election officers in preparation for the upcoming general elections in 2024. According to sources within the ECP, officers with a commendable reputation will be selected as Returning Officers (ROs) and District Returning Officers (DROs) following the examination of their service records.
Changes in Rules for Appointment of ROs and DROs
In a notable shift, the ECP has altered the rules governing the appointment of ROs and DROs. The updated regulations now mandate the inclusion of service records for administrative officers shortlisted for election duties. This change aims to ensure a thorough evaluation of the officers’ qualifications and performance.
Criteria for Appointment of DROs and ROs
Under the revised rules, officers of Grade 18 or above will be designated as District Returning Officers (DROs). A crucial criterion for their appointment is that their retirement should have occurred one year before their deputation as DROs. Similarly, officers of Grade 17 will serve as Returning Officers (ROs), with the same retirement criteria applied as in the case of DROs.
These changes signify the ECP’s commitment to enhancing the integrity and efficiency of the electoral process by selecting officers with a proven track record for key roles in the upcoming elections.
