Pakistan’s Election Commission made a significant announcement on Thursday, confirming that the country’s general elections will be conducted in the last week of January 2024. The Commission outlined its plans for expediting the delimitation process, an essential step in preparing for the upcoming elections.
According to the Election Commission’s statement, the initial list for the delimitation of constituencies will be published on September 27. This will mark the beginning of the crucial process of defining the boundaries and distribution of constituencies for the elections. The final list, incorporating feedback and addressing objections, is expected to be issued on November 30, allowing ample time for preparations.
These developments come after the National Assembly of Pakistan was prematurely dissolved on August 9, triggering the requirement for general elections to be held within 90 days. Initially, concerns were raised about potential delays in the election schedule due to the government’s decision to link the polls with the completion of a new census and the redrawing of constituency boundaries.
However, responding to growing pressure from various political parties advocating for timely elections, the Election Commission has decided to streamline the delimitation process to ensure that the elections take place as scheduled.
It’s worth noting that the Constitution of Pakistan stipulates that the Election Commission should finalize the delimitation process within 120 days, reflecting the constitutional commitment to holding free and fair elections.
The announcement of the election schedule and the expedited delimitation process are significant steps in Pakistan’s democratic journey. As the nation prepares for the general elections in January 2024, political parties, candidates, and the electorate will be closely following developments, making this a pivotal moment in Pakistan’s political landscape.
Sources By Agencies
