Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are devices that are used to record votes electronically. They are designed to replace traditional paper ballots and are used in many countries around the world. EVMs are designed to be user-friendly and easy to operate. They are equipped with a touch screen interface that allows voters to select their preferred candidate. Once the voter has made their selection, the machine records the vote and stores it in its memory. At the end of the voting period, the EVMs are collected and the votes are tallied.
The use of EVMs has been a topic of debate in Pakistan. In February 2022, the previous administration of former Prime Minister Imran Khan sanctioned the use of EVMs in the upcoming general elections. However, the National Assembly later passed the Elections (Amendment) Bill, 2022, which removed the use of EVMs and effectively disallowed overseas Pakistanis from voting. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had also expressed concerns about the use of EVMs and the amendments made during the previous government. Therefore, in the 2024 election, Pakistan will not be using electronic voting machines.
One of the main concerns about the use of EVMs is their security. There have been concerns that EVMs can be hacked or tampered with, which could compromise the integrity of the election. However, EVMs are designed to be secure and use the latest technology to prevent tampering. They are equipped with encryption and other security features that make it difficult for anyone to manipulate the results. Additionally, EVMs are designed to be tamper-proof, which means that any attempt to tamper with the machine will be detected.
Despite the security features of EVMs, there are still concerns about their use. One of the main concerns is that they are not transparent. Unlike traditional paper ballots, it is difficult to verify the results of an electronic vote. This lack of transparency can lead to doubts about the legitimacy of the election results. Additionally, there are concerns that EVMs can be manipulated by those with access to the machines. This could include election officials, political parties, or other individuals who have access to the machines.
Another concern about the use of EVMs is their cost. EVMs are expensive to purchase and maintain. Additionally, they require a significant amount of training for election officials and voters. This can be a significant burden for countries with limited resources.
In conclusion, the use of electronic voting machines in Pakistan has been a topic of debate. While EVMs are designed to be secure and easy to use, there are concerns about their transparency and cost. Additionally, the decision to use EVMs in the 2024 election was reversed, and the Elections Amendment Bill was passed, nullifying their use in the election. Therefore, in the 2024 election, Pakistan will not be using electronic voting machines.
