ECP strips G-B govt of key powers

The Gilgit-Baltistan government has been stripped of its financial and administrative powers after the Election Commission intervened to curb what it described as growing signs of pre-poll manipulation and misuse of state resources ahead of next month's general elections.

In a sweeping order issued on Tuesday, the G-B Election Commission said it had taken the decision in response to "genuine public concern" over politically motivated appointments, transfers and diversion of development funds in the run-up to the polls. The assembly's five-year term is set to expire on November 24.

Citing its constitutional mandate to ensure free and fair elections, the commission said such actions during the pre-election period "risk undermining public trust in the neutrality and integrity of the electoral process."

"All forms of recruitment, appointment, and posting in any regional department or organisation are hereby banned with immediate effect," the notification stated, adding that only cases processed through the Federal Public Service Commission or those where tests and interviews had already been completed would be exempt.

The order also prohibited the initiation of new development schemes, the diversion of funds from approved projects, and any administrative changes or policy directives until a new government assumes office.

The notification will remain in force until the completion of the upcoming general and local government elections.