Balochistan Election Commissioner Shariullah on Saturday administered oath to the District Returning Officers (DROs) and Quetta deputy commissioner for the upcoming local government polls scheduled for Nov 30.
The oath-taking ceremony took place at the Provincial Election Commissioner office.
In the subsequent phase of this event, the DROs are set to administer the oath to all 17 returning officers and 34 assistant returning officers who will be overseeing the LG elections in the Quetta district.
The provincial election commissioner emphasised the importance of ensuring a peaceful, transparent, and impartial conduct of the LG elections in Quetta.
Also read: Sindh faces shortage of polling staff
He offered valuable guidance to the officials present, urging them to spare no effort in ensuring that every stage of the elections is conducted in an amicable and fair manner.
Further, Sharifullah underlined that conducting clean and transparent elections was not just a legal obligation but also a national responsibility that should be upheld by all. He committed to utilising all available resources to achieve the goal.
The Election Commission of Pakistan has already announced the schedule for the elections.
In Balochistan, LG elections were held across the province in May last year. Except for Quetta and Lasbela, the elections were held throughout the province.
Balochistan has taken a significant step to promote public participation in the electoral process by extending the deadline for voter registration, transfers, and data validation.
This decision aligns with the Election Commission’s efforts to facilitate the public’s engagement in the upcoming elections.
Read: Voter registration deadline extended in Balochistan
During a meeting with representatives from various political parties, Sharifullah emphasised the importance of this decision. Earlier, the deadline for voter registration had been extended by three days till Oct 28 to ensure the accuracy of their registration data, transfer their votes, or make necessary corrections.
This extension aimed to encourage citizens to effectively exercise their voting rights.
To register, transfer, or correct their voting information, citizens could simply send their CNIC number to 8300. Additionally, for any necessary corrections, they could visit their respective District Election Commissioner’s office.
The ECP announced that LG elections will be held in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province, on Nov 30.
Virtually all major political parties are gearing up to participate in these upcoming local elections.
Published in The Express Tribune, October 29th, 2023.
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