ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Wednesday dismissed requests from the Balochistan chief minister and governor to delay the upcoming local government elections in the province.
In its ruling, the Commission stated that the reasons presented for postponement were “not legally acceptable” and confirmed that voting will proceed as planned on December 28.
The ECP emphasized that holding the elections was a constitutional obligation that must be fulfilled, regardless of prevailing circumstances. It highlighted that delimitation in Quetta had been conducted twice, objections had been addressed, and the Balochistan High Court had already rejected related challenges.
The decision further clarified that the constitution does not permit delaying local government elections. The Commission also noted that the Supreme Court has previously ruled electoral matters fall under the ECP’s jurisdiction, and any interference from the provincial government would constitute a constitutional violation.
The ruling has been communicated to the provincial government, the governor, and other concerned institutions.
However, Shah Muhammad Jatoi, the ECP member representing Balochistan, disagreed with the majority decision. He expressed concerns over harsh winter conditions causing population migration and an unsatisfactory law-and-order situation in the province.
