Finance Division issued a statement and said: “Finance Division has released Rs17.4 billion to the ECP in addition to Rs10 billion released in July 2023 for conduct of general elections in the country,” the statement read.
Earlier, Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi assured the public on Monday that there's no financial crisis hindering the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) preparations for the February 8 polls.He affirmed on X that all budgeted funds will be released promptly based on the ECP's needs, contradicting media reports of a funding shortfall.Solangi's statement stemmed from reports claiming the ECP summoned the finance secretary due to delayed election funds.He clarified that the federal cabinet approved Rs42 billion for the ECP, with Rs10 billion already disbursed.He confirmed the ECP requested a further Rs17.4 billion release.Reiterating the government's commitment to free and fair elections, the minister referenced Article 218(3) of the constitution.