Islamabad (HRNW)- The Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja has expressed concern over the continued delay in local government elections, remarking that local governments are unfortunately being ignored by the current administration.
During a hearing at the Election Commission of Pakistan, officials discussed delays related to Islamabad’s local government elections. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi could not attend due to illness, while the Interior Secretary appeared before the five-member commission. The Chief Election Commissioner granted the minister exemption from the hearing.
Election Commission officials stated that including the names of Union Councils in the draft notification was not the authority of the Home Secretary, as determining such matters falls under the Election Commission’s mandate. Officials also pointed out that the number of Union Councils had been increased from 125 to 130, which was not required.
The Interior Secretary apologized for the contempt notice and informed the commission that the draft notification for Islamabad’s local government elections has been sent to the cabinet for approval, with input also received from the Law Ministry.
The Chief Election Commissioner noted that Islamabad has not held local government elections since February 2021, adding that despite previous assurances by governments, the Election Commission and the local government system continue to be neglected. He announced the formation of a joint committee of Election Commission and ICT officials, headed by the Chief Commissioner or Deputy Commissioner, to move the process forward.
He emphasized that serious steps will now be taken regarding local government elections in Islamabad and Punjab, stating that there will be no further delays. The hearing was later adjourned for further proceedings.
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