The 18-point code of conduct for media prepared by the ECP states that the content floated on print, electronic and digital media during the election campaign “shall not reflect any opinion prejudicial to the ideology, sovereignty, uprightness or security of Pakistan, public order or the integrity and independence of the judiciary of Pakistan”.

It highlighted that allegations and statements harming national solidarity or may create a law and order situation during the election campaign and on polling day shall be strictly avoided on print and electronic media and by any media person, newspaper and channel.

The ECP said content on media shall not include any aspect which may be construed as a personal attack on a candidate or political party and any allegation should include the comments from both sides.

It added that Pemra, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Press Information Department (PID), and the Cyber Wing and Digital Media Wing of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MoIB) would be responsible for monitoring the coverage given to political parties and candidates for their election campaigns through electronic channels, print and social media.

“The above authorities shall submit to the commission details of payments made by the political parties and candidates within 10 days after poll day,” the ECP said.

During coverage of the polling process, media persons shall not obstruct directly or indirectly in any pre-election, election or post-election process, the commission further stated. The media is also not allowed to air any unofficial result of a polling station until one hour has passed after the close of the poll.

In case of violation of this Code of Conduct, the Election Commission of Pakistan reserves the right to withdraw the accreditation of an individual journalist/media organisation, the ECP warned, adding that the authority to determine the violation also rests with the electoral body.