Karachi, Feb.3: Pakistan's Chief Election Commissioner Justice (Retired) Qazi Mohammad Farooq has said that the army would be deployed at the most sensitive polling stations before and during the February 18 general elections if the Election Commission of Pakistan felt that paramilitary forces were unable to maintain law and order.

Talking to journalists here on Saturday after an orientation workshop, jointly organized by the Election Commission and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for district returning officers (DROs), Justice (Retired) Farooq expressed hope about provincial governments maintaining law and order.

The Daily Times, however, quoted him as saying that the Election Commission has asked for a list of the most sensitive polling stations and would decide to deploy the army if it felt it to be necessary.

The CEC said that holding peaceful, free and fair elections was the responsibility of the commission, and it has made all the needed arrangements. He disagreed with the notion that the turnout would be lower as they had launched an awareness campaign to encourage voters.

The CEC said that most of the complaints received by the commission were related to the transfer and postings of government employees.

He said that those participating in the elections should realize that Pakistan is presently passing through the most sensitive and crucial stage of its history. Therefore, they should show a greater degree of maturity and responsibility during their election campaign and follow the code of conduct. (ANI)