UK announces Election Observer Mission for Pakistan

Britain has announced Election Observer Mission for Pakistan for the forthcoming general elections.

ISLAMABAD (APP) - Britain on Wednesday announced Election Observer Mission for Pakistan for the forthcoming general elections being held on May 11.   British High Commissioner Adam Thomson, announcing the 25 member UK Election Observer Mission here at British High Commission today said, “Credible and acceptable elections on May 11 are of tremendous importance not only for Pakistan but also for United Kingdom.”   

He said, “The United Kingdom firmly believes that democratic continuity and consolidation are not only vital for Pakistan’s own well being but are also the key to ever stronger and deeper relations between our two countries.”   He said the international observers are a common feature in elections throughout the world, including in the UK.   The British High Commissioner said observers play a central role in creating voter’s confidence, deterring electoral fraud and observing the credibility of the election process.   He said UK Election Observers will adhere to Pakistani laws and comply with the code of conduct for observers issued by the Election Commission of Pakistan.   Replying to a question about the importance of democratic process of Pakistan, he said: “We are committed to supporting Pakistan to develop its democracy, as credible elections that are acceptable to the people of Pakistan are the key to achieving our shared vision of a prosperous and stable Pakistan.”   He said elections in 2013 would mark the first democratic transfer of power from the civilian government to another in Pakistan’s history.   The Britain High Commissioner said, “Elections 2013 are the clearest opportunity Pakistan has to consolidate and deepen its democracy.”