ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan on Friday issued written verdict, declaring that the notification by Sindh government to postpone Local Government elections in Karachi and Hyderabad are in violation of provision under Section 9 (2)(b) of the SLGA-2013 and decides to continue the process of 2″ Phase Local Government Elections and polling in all the districts of Karachi and Hyderabad divisions held on 15-01-2023 as per Schedule.
Also read: Despite orders by court & ECP, Sindh delays LG elections in Karachi, Hyderabad
The ECP in its verdict declares: “The Election Commission under Article I40-A(2), Article 219(4218(3) and Article 222 of the Constitution and read with Section-219(4) of the Elections Act, 2017 and the Judgments of the Apex Court handed down from time to time with regard to timely conduct of Local Government Elections and Reported in PLD 2010 SC 573, PM 2012 SC 681, 2014 SCMR 101. 2021 SCMR 714 and the judgment passed by the august Supreme Court in C.I’. No. 841-K dated 17.08-2022 , it is held that the Notifications dated 12.01-2023 issued by the Provincial Government of Sindh are in violation of provision under Section 9 (2)(b) of the SLGA-2013 and decides to continue the process of 2″ Phase Local Government Elections and polling in all the districts of Karachi and Hyderabad divisions held on 15-01-2023 as per Schedule .The request for postponement of Elections in Tehsil Mahar and khairpur Nathanshah of District Dadu by the Provincial Government Sindh is also hereby regretted. The Chief Secretary and IG Sindh are directed to make all necessary foolproof arrangements including provision of security to the voters and for conduct of free and fair local Government Elections in Sindh. The Secretary and Special Secretary Election Commission are also directed to proceed to Karachi to co-ordinate with the relevant authorities, Provincial Government and Law Enforcement agencies to ensure smooth conduct of elections.”
Also read: ECP rejects Sindh govt’s decision, to hold LG elections in Karachi & Hyd on Jan 15
The complete ECP written verdict is attached below.
