ISLAMABAD: Amid ongoing speculations aiming to cast doubts on the scheduled general polls on February 8, two separate petitions urging the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to postpone the elections were presented. These appeals, originating from individuals in Balochistan, cited security concerns and snowfall in various districts as grounds for the requested delay.
An ECP spokesperson countered these claims, asserting that the updated electoral rolls for the upcoming general elections were already in the process of printing at Nadra offices. Additionally, the distribution of these lists to different districts has commenced.
One petition, submitted by Meena Majeed, a general councilor from Mand tehsil in the Kech district via Advocate Fatima Nazar, highlighted heightened security issues in Balochistan. The petition pointed out a surge in terrorist activities in the Mekran division, specifically in districts like Kech and Gwadar. It cited 61 acts of terrorism in the last three months alone, resulting in 32 casualties. The challenging geographical terrain, scattered populations, and inadequate infrastructure were presented as obstacles to implementing effective security measures.
The petitioner urged the ECP to acknowledge the petition, delay polling in Kech, and announce a new schedule within the district for the sake of justice and citizens exercising their voting rights.
The second petition, filed by Toor Gul Khan Jogezai from Kila Saifullah Khan district through Advocate Azizullah Kakakhel, emphasized the impact of heavy snowfall on the daily routines of residents in various districts and divisions across the country during winters. It argued that holding elections in such areas could lead to displacement or limited participation until May or the restoration of normal life. The petition suggested postponing the elections to a more suitable time to ensure residents’ participation in a free and fair electoral process.
Notably, the ECP has already dismissed reports of election delays and unprepared electoral rolls, labeling them as “baseless and misleading.” The commission expressed its intention to take legal action against those spreading such “misleading” news through Pemra.
