International Observers and Journalists to Monitor Pakistan's General Elections, Over 170 Requests Received

 With the general elections in Pakistan set to take place on February 8, the country's Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi announced that international observers and journalists would be monitoring and covering the event. There are over 170 requests being processed, including two dozen from India. Solangi confirmed that 49 visas have already been issued to foreign journalists, with 32 more currently under process. The total number of requests received from various outlets is 174. Solangi also addressed rumors that no international observers or journalists would be present for the elections, stating that these claims are false.

He emphasized the diversity of the observers, with applications from countries such as Britain, Russia, Japan, Canada, South Africa, and other Commonwealth nations being processed. The accreditation cards issued to foreign journalists and international observers were initially restricted to Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, but Solangi assured that any foreigners wishing to visit other cities would have their requests processed on a case-to-case basis.

The Election Commission of Pakistan had extended an invitation to international observers back in October, and with the passing of the January 20 deadline, election commission and information ministry officials continue to review submitted requests. Solangi also revealed that representatives from renowned international media outlets such as CNN, BBC, and Germany's Deutsche Welle News already have a presence in the country.

In addition to these updates, Solangi also reaffirmed the government's commitment to holding fair and transparent elections, in response to jailed former prime minister Imran Khan's claims of bias against his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI). Overall, the presence of international observers and journalists highlights the significance of these elections on an international scale.