QUETTA: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has rejected Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti’s request to delay local government (LG) elections in Quetta.
In a written order, the ECP said the elections will go ahead as scheduled on December 28, 2025. It directed the Balochistan government to fully cooperate with the commission and other authorities to ensure smooth polling.
The ECP also ordered the government and security agencies to provide foolproof security for voters, candidates, polling staff and the public.
However, ECP member Shah Muhammad issued a dissenting note. He warned that voter turnout could fall due to Quetta’s severe winter. He said many residents leave the city during extreme cold, which may affect participation.
He also raised concerns about the law and order situation in parts of Balochistan and argued that conditions were not ideal for holding elections. He recommended postponing the polls until security and weather improved.
Despite these objections, the ECP said all required measures, including security deployment, will be in place to conduct the polls safely and fairly. It stressed that the elections must proceed under constitutional obligations.
The decision confirms that Quetta will vote on December 28, marking a key step in the province’s local governance process.
It is also important to note that the Balochistan High Court dismissed similar petitions on October 10 and ordered the ECP to hold the elections “as soon as possible.”
Last month, the ECP rejected a similar request from the provincial government to postpone the polls. The commission instructed authorities to ensure full security for a smooth voting process.
The ECP had announced that local government elections in Quetta will be held on December 28. Nomination papers for general seats in urban union councils were accepted from November 13 to 17.
The commission stressed that holding elections on time is crucial for strengthening local democracy and maintaining the constitutional schedule for local bodies in Balochistan.
In October, the Balochistan High Court ordered the immediate conduct of local government elections in Quetta.
Local government polls are considered vital for empowering communities and promoting grassroots governance. The province has faced repeated delays due to administrative hurdles, boundary disputes, and legal challenges.
The last major round of local body elections in Balochistan was conducted in phases, leaving several districts without representatives for years.
