Commission company on December 28 to vote; government asked to ensure security, as Balochistan member disagrees over the weather, threats
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has rejected Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti’s appeal to postpone local government elections in the provincial capital. The commission has clarified that the elections in Quetta will be held as planned, on December 28. These polls have been pending since 2022.
The ECP has issued a written decision in this regard, noting that the request to postpone the municipal elections had been filed by Bugti and has been rejected.
The commission has directed the provincial government to ensure foolproof security and arrangements for the elections. The provincial government has been ordered to provide full assistance to the ECP under Article 220 of the Constitution of Pakistan, which mandates all federal and provincial executive authorities to assist the commission and ensure independent functioning and fair elections.
Read:CM seeks further delays in Quetta LG polls
Meanwhile, Member ECP Shah Muhammad Jatoi from Balochistan has written a dissenting note expressing concern over low voter turnout due to harsh weather conditions and the prevailing security situation. He has proposed that the election be postponed until conditions improve.
In his postponement appeal, CM Bugti had also cited the worsening law and order situation as well as the internet shutdown and severe weather, which he said makes people migrate seasonally, resulting in low voter turnout.
The ECP has already completed preparations for the elections in Quetta, where the printing of ballot papers has begun on Monday.
