ECP accepts Sindh's request, postpones local bodies elections in Karachi

Islamabad: Upon the request of the PPP-led Sindh government, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Tuesday decided to postpone local government elections in Karachi for a third time

According to a press release, the decision was taken following a third request by the Sindh government seeking postponement for three months of the LG polls in seven districts of Karachi, scheduled for October 23.

The second phase of the local government elections in Sindh was originally scheduled to take place on July 24. However, it was postponed twice due to unprecedented rains and the flooding crisis.

The Sindh government stated that there were difficulties in providing security for the polls as it is facing a shortage of 16,000 police personnel.

According to the press release, the ECP had no other option than to postpone the LG elections since “peaceful conduct of the election and the protection of the voters” was its top priority.

The electroal watchdog decided to hold another meeting after 15 days to gain feedback from the provincial government and other law enforcement agencies to ensure that local body polls are conducted as soon as possible and a date fixed for them.