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Election Commission of Pakistan building in Islamabad. Photo: Radio Pakistan
ISLAMABAD:
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Wednesday rejected Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti’s request to postpone the local government (LG) elections in Quetta, saying polling would be held on December 28 as per the schedule released on November 3.
In its written order, the commission reiterated that the Quetta local elections will be held on schedule, noting that the printing of ballot papers is already underway.
The order directed the Balochistan government and security agencies to cooperate fully and make foolproof arrangements to protect voters, candidates, election staff and the public so that the elections are held smoothly.
In a dissenting note, Election Commission member Shah Muhammad Jatoi agreed with the majority on the technical objections, but warned that Quetta’s harsh winter and the migration of residents could dampen voter turnout.
He further highlighted security concerns in parts of Balochistan and recommended postponing the elections until conditions improve.
The chief minister, in an appeal, urged the commission to modify or suspend the election schedule, citing inclement weather, security concerns, administrative preparedness and issues related to constituency boundaries and electoral rolls. The Commission had earlier rejected similar appeals by the Chief Minister on November 3 and the Balochistan Governor on November 26.
