The Sindh government has announced a public holiday in 14 districts on September 24 for the upcoming local government by-polls. The decision aims to ensure maximum voter participation and smooth conduct of the electoral process.
According to the notification, a total of 28 seats will be contested in these by-elections. The vacant positions include two district council seats, six chairmen, seven vice-chairmen, and thirteen general ward members.
Polling Stations and Security Arrangements
Authorities have set up 167 polling stations across the 14 districts. Out of these, 34 polling stations are categorized as sensitive, while 127 have been marked as highly sensitive due to security concerns.
Seventeen polling stations have been established exclusively for male voters, while an equal number have been designated for female voters. Additionally, 134 joint polling stations will accommodate both men and women.
Voter Statistics
The total number of registered voters for these by-elections stands at 243,187. This includes 133,038 male voters and 110,154 female voters. Officials expect a considerable turnout, particularly since the public holiday is intended to facilitate citizens in casting their votes without restrictions.
Deployment of Election Staff
A total of 1,512 officials will oversee the electoral process. This includes 14 district monitoring officers and 21 monitoring officers appointed to ensure fair and transparent polling. Election staff, security forces, and monitoring teams will remain active throughout the day to prevent irregularities.
Restrictions Under Election Laws
In line with Section 182 of the Elections Act, 2017, political parties are prohibited from holding rallies, public gatherings, processions, or corner meetings within 48 hours of polling. These restrictions came into effect at midnight between September 22 and 23 and will remain in place until polling concludes.
Furthermore, carrying mobile phones inside polling stations has been strictly prohibited. The only exceptions apply to polling staff and security personnel, who are permitted to use mobile devices for official purposes.
Ensuring Transparent By-Elections
The Sindh government has stressed that these measures are designed to ensure a peaceful and transparent voting process. With security tightened at highly sensitive polling stations and strict monitoring in place, the authorities are committed to safeguarding the integrity of the electoral exercise.
The local government by-polls on September 24 hold significance for political representation across 14 districts of Sindh. With 28 seats up for grabs, stringent security arrangements, and the declaration of a public holiday, the stage is set for voters to exercise their democratic right.
