The federal cabinet, presided over by Caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar, convened to address crucial matters concerning the upcoming elections, unanimously approved the deployment of both the Army and Civil Armed Forces during the polls, with the Army set to function as the Red Response Force in sensitive constituencies to ensure a secure and orderly electoral process.
The decision comes following the submission of a summary by the Federal Ministry of Interior, outlining the need for military services to maintain a secure electoral environment.
As per the approved summary, a substantial contingent of 277,000 officers and personnel from the Pakistan Army will be deployed for election duties. Additionally, Rangers and Frontier Corps (FC) personnel will also be stationed to support security measures during the general elections. Sources indicate that these combined forces, comprising the army and civil armed forces, will function as a quick response force in sensitive areas.
With the general elections scheduled for February 8, preparations have reached their final stages. The Election Commission, in its readiness efforts, has frozen the funds of all local government departments to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process.
Alongside election-related matters, the federal cabinet also conducted a thorough review of the summary pertaining to the restructuring of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). Despite comprehensive discussions, a conclusive decision on FBR restructuring was not reached during the cabinet meeting.
In response, the Prime Minister has taken proactive measures by establishing a committee tasked with further consideration of the proposed reforms within the FBR, aiming to enhance organizational efficiency.
