Commission closes December 28 for vote; govt to ensure security as Balochistan member disagrees on weather conditions, threats
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has rejected Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti’s appeal to postpone local body elections in the provincial capital. The commission clarified that the elections in Quetta will take place as scheduled on December 28. These elections have been pending since 2022.
The ECP issued a written decision in this regard, noting that the request to postpone the local elections was submitted by Bugti and was rejected.
The commission asked the provincial government to ensure foolproof security and arrangements for the elections. The provincial government has been directed to provide full assistance to the ECP under Article 220 of the Constitution of Pakistan which requires all federal and provincial executive authorities to assist the commission, thereby ensuring independent functioning and fair elections.
Read:CM calls for further delay in Quetta LG polls
Meanwhile, ECP member Shah Muhammad Jatoi from Balochistan wrote a dissenting note, expressing concern over the low turnout due to extreme weather conditions and the current security situation. He suggested that the elections be postponed until conditions improve.
In his appeal seeking the postponement, CM Bugti had also cited the deteriorating law and order situation, as well as internet shutdown and bad weather, which he said were pushing people to migrate seasonally, leading to low turnout.
The ECP has already completed preparations for the elections in Quetta, with the printing of ballot papers beginning on Monday.
