ECP Ready for Punjab LG Polls, Vows to Overcome Hurdles in KP, Islamabad
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has declared its readiness to hold local government (LG) elections in Punjab, while confronting legal and administrative obstacles in Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Quetta, and cantonment boards. The announcement came during a special meeting chaired by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja, convened to assess poll preparations nationwide.
What is the status of LG polls in Punjab?
The ECP informed the meeting that preparations for Punjab's LG elections are complete, with a draft election schedule already forwarded to the provincial government. The commission has requested lists for the appointment of district returning officers, returning officers, and assistant returning officers to expedite the process. Punjab authorities have been urged to respond to the draft schedule without delay.
Why are Islamabad and cantonment polls facing legal hurdles?
In Islamabad, delimitation has been finalized, but the Islamabad Capital Territory Amendment Ordinance 2026 has lapsed. A National Assembly Standing Committee has approved legislation aligned with the ordinance, prompting the ECP to seek the federal government's immediate action to complete the legislative process. Should legislation stall, the ECP will proceed under the existing Islamabad Capital Territory Local Government Act 2015.
For cantonment boards, delimitation is complete and the ECP stands ready. However, Section 19-D of the Cantonments Act 2023 requires a formal request from the federal government to initiate polls. Despite reminders and a letter from the CEC to the prime minister, no such request has been received. The ECP has resolved to issue a final letter to the Ministry of Defence, warning of an appropriate decision if no response follows.
What is delaying KP local body elections?
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa presents a complex challenge. Delimitation was completed in 23 districts and was underway in seven when the provincial government amended Section 6 of the KP Local Government Act 2023, raising the threshold for village and neighbourhood councils from 5,000-15,000 to 30,000-40,000. This amendment conflicts with the 9th Schedule of the Act, rendering delimitation unworkable.
The ECP has asked the provincial government to amend the schedule accordingly, but no action has been taken. The matter is now under hearing before the ECP, which will deliver an appropriate decision.
How is Balochistan responding to Quetta LG poll orders?
Balochistan's LG institutions' term expires on February 8, 2027, yet polls in Quetta remain unheld despite Federal Constitutional Court orders. The ECP completed delimitation on May 21, 2026, in compliance with the court, but the provincial government bifurcated Quetta into two districts without providing boundary details or data. The ECP described the Balochistan government's response as really slow and has decided to write again, demanding early legislation and full compliance with the court order.
Who attended the ECP meeting?
The meeting was attended by ECP members Nisar Ahmed Durrani, Shah Mohammad Jatoi, and Justice (retired) Ikramullah, alongside ECP Secretary Omar Hamid and other senior officers. Their collective resolve underscores the commission's commitment to upholding the democratic process across the nation.
As Pakistan moves forward, the ECP's steadfastness reflects the spirit of our homeland: patient in preparation, firm in purpose, and unwavering in the pursuit of justice through the ballot. The path may be strewn with obstacles, but the commission's determination mirrors the resilience of our people, who have always risen to meet the challenges of destiny with faith and fortitude.