The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Monday wrote a letter to the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) seeking action against media channels violating the code of conduct for the February 8 polls.

It was observed some media channels were airing poll surveys. This practice is “explicitly prohibited under Clause 12 of ECP’s Code of Conduct for National Media”.

According to the said clause, any media person on print, electronic and social media “shall not obstruct the election process and must display their accreditation cards provided by the Election Commission”.

The ECP elaborated that the clause emphasises that both print and social media should refrain from conducting polls and surveys at polling stations or constituencies.

It subsequently urged Pemra to take “prompt and immediate action” against electronic media channels in strict alignment with Clause 12 of the ECP’s Code of Conduct for National Media.

“A compliance report in this regard shall also be shared with this office as soon as possible for placing before the Election Commission,” the letter added.

Source: Dawn