EC suspends government’s new year food relief program

In an official statement, the Election Commission instructed the Secretary to the President and the Secretary to the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security, and Cooperative Development to halt the distribution of the seasonal food relief packages until after the elections are concluded.

The Commission expressed concerns that the timing of the food distribution could influence the electoral process, especially in areas where voters might view the program as politically motivated. 

As a result, the relief initiative, which was meant to provide assistance to vulnerable communities during the festive season, will now be postponed to avoid any perceptions of undue influence during the election period.

This decision comes as part of the Election Commission’s ongoing efforts to maintain a free and fair election process, ensuring that all actions taken by government entities are neutral and do not interfere with the democratic process. The Commission has emphasized that the suspension is a precautionary measure and aims to safeguard the integrity of the election.

While the move has been met with mixed reactions, many are hopeful that the program will be reinstated after the elections, ensuring that those in need receive the support they require.

As the election draws closer, all eyes will remain on how the situation develops and whether the program can resume in a manner that aligns with both the government’s relief objectives and the electoral framework.