commitment to ensuring peaceful elections while acknowledging the lurking terrorist threats that pose a significant risk to political figures, with a specific alert for Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the chief of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F). The Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) recent request to the interior ministry for the deployment of the army and civil armed forces outside polling stations underscores the severity of the security deficit. With a shortfall of over 277,000 police personnel, the government faces a daunting challenge in safeguarding the electoral process. Bugti’s commitment to meeting the ECP’s requirements for the deployment of civil armed forces is a step in the right direction, demonstrating a proactive approach to address security concerns. The minister candidly addressed the vulnerability of political leaders to acts of terrorism during public rallies and gatherings, labeling it as a formidable challenge in the current climate of heightened security concerns. Despite the historical backdrop of terrorist activities during election days, Bugti reassured the public of the government’s commitment to providing a secure environment for citizens to freely exercise their right to vote. The acknowledgment of a “general threat” to politicians emphasizes the pervasive risks faced by all political figures in the lead-up to the elections. Bugti’s specific alert for Maulana Fazlur Rehman underscores the need for targeted security measures for leaders facing particular threats. This differentiation in the level of alert demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the complex security landscape, where one-size-fits-all approaches may fall short. Bugti’s historical references to the targeting of prominent political figures during election campaigns, such as former premiers Shaukat Aziz and Benazir Bhutto, Nawab Sanaullah Zehri, and Mir Siraj Khan Raisani, serve as a stark reminder of the persistent challenges Pakistan faces. These instances highlight the urgency for comprehensive security measures, especially during the crucial period leading up to and including election days. Minister Bugti addressed the government’s preparedness to deploy civil armed forces for the February 8 elections. However, he remained cautious about indicating the army’s availability for poll-related security duties. This cautious approach may stem from the delicate balance required to ensure both a robust security apparatus and the smooth functioning of the electoral process. Mr. Bugti also provided insights into the current operational status of paramilitary forces under his command. The challenges faced by Rangers in katcha areas of Sindh, the overstretched nature of Frontier Corps Balochistan, and the ongoing efforts of the Frontier Constabulary in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa highlight the multifaceted nature of the security operations across the country. Bugti rightly pointed out, the deployment of the army for elections falls within the domain of the Ministry of Defence. This delineation of responsibilities showcases the coordinated efforts required between various government entities to ensure a comprehensive and effective security apparatus for the upcoming elections.