ECP rejects CM Bugti's LG poll delay plea

ISLAMABAD:

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Wednesday dismissed Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti's plea to postpone Local Government (LG) elections in Quetta, affirming that polling will take place on December 28, in accordance with the schedule issued on November 3,.

In its written order, the commission reaffirmed that Quetta's local body elections will proceed on schedule, noting that ballot paper printing is already underway.

The order directed the Balochistan government and security agencies to provide full cooperation and ensure foolproof arrangements to safeguard voters, candidates, polling staff, and the public for the smooth conduct of the polls.

In a dissenting note, Election Commission member Shah Muhammad Jatoi concurred with the majority on technical objections but cautioned that Quetta's severe winter and resident migration could dampen voter turnout.

He further highlighted security concerns in parts of Balochistan and recommended postponing the polls until conditions improve.

The chief minister, in an appeal, urged the commission to alter or suspend the election schedule, citing harsh weather, security concerns, administrative readiness, and issues with constituency boundaries and voter lists. The Commission had earlier rejected similar pleas from the Chief Minister on November 3 and the Governor of Balochistan on November 26.