POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Chief Election Commissioner warns of summoning PM over delay in Islamabad local elections

CEC warns PM could be summoned if Islamabad local polls face more delay. Punjab LG elections stalled for 3 years over legal changes. Urges immediate action.
2025-06-02
Chief Election Commissioner warns of summoning PM over delay in Islamabad local elections

The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of Pakistan has issued a stern warning that if local government elections are not conducted in Islamabad promptly, even the Prime Minister may be called to ensure compliance.

The statement came during a hearing concerning the delay of local government elections in Punjab. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) was briefed by Secretary Umar Hameed, who highlighted a lack of interest from both the Punjab and federal governments in holding these elections.

Umar Hameed revealed that the Punjab government has postponed local elections for over three years, despite the local governments’ term ending on September 31, 2021. Since 2019, local government laws in Punjab have been amended five times, with a sixth amendment currently underway.

The CEC emphasized that he had personally appeared before the Supreme Court in the matter and criticized the provincial government for failing to pass necessary legislation on time.

Punjab’s Minister for Local Government stated that legislation is under consideration by the Standing Committee and efforts are ongoing to finalize it soon.

The CEC noted that all provinces except Punjab have successfully held local elections. He urged for an immediate resolution, warning that the Election Commission cannot remain passive.

When questioned about enforcement, the Chief Election Commissioner said the ECP has the authority to summon the Chief Minister and, if necessary, the Prime Minister to ensure elections are held in Islamabad and Punjab without further delay.