Date for submission of papers extended in Balochistan

QUETTA:

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has extended the date for submitting nomination papers for local government polls in Balochistan by three days. Now nomination papers will be accepted till April 21. All the returning officers (ROs) have been notified of the decision.

Meanwhile, Balochistan Chief Secretary, Mathar Niaz Rana has said that no interference in the forthcoming local bodies’ elections would be tolerated.

He visited Panjgur district and reviewed the pace of arrangements for the upcoming LG elections at a meeting.

“Maximum participation of masses is required in the elections,” Rana told the district officers attending the meeting.

He urged the district administration to be impartial and play a very positive role during elections in Panjgur.

Elections are scheduled to be held on May 29 in the 32 districts of the province except Quetta and Lasbella districts where the ECP has delayed the polls because of some delimitation issues.

The chief secretary stated that 25 per cent budget would be spent on LG to bring far-flung areas of Balochistan at par with other parts of the province.

Regardnig border issues, he said that law enforcement agencies would be contacted to address the grievances of the masses of the bordering areas.

There is no restriction on commodities and other items, he said, adding that the provincial government was determined to support the people living near the Iranian border.

He also directed the officials to expedite the pace of development projects to make sure provision of basic facilities to the masses.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 17^th, 2022.