ECP kicks off delimitation process for general elections

ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has moved closer to redrawing boundaries for the upcoming general elections, as it announced the formation of five delimitation committees, one for each of the four provinces and the federal capital.

According to the Dawn.com, the composition of these committees, however, has been kept under wraps.

As per the media reports, the ECP has chosen not to reveal the committee’s composition to prevent outside influence on the delimitation process. The choice aligned with the goal of upholding the integrity of the delimitation exercise.

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Meanwhile, the ECP has stated that the new delimitation process, which has stirred controversy even before its commencement, would be conducted in accordance with Article 51 of the Constitution and Section 17(2) of the Elections Act, 2017. These stipulate that the commission is tasked with delimiting constituencies following each officially published census.

As per an August 17 notification, the committees were set to acquire district maps and essential data from the federal capital and provinces until August 31. Subsequently, the commission initiated a four-day training program for the teams on September 1, whereas, the actual delimitation of constituencies was scheduled for September 7 to 8.

The reports indicated that the ECP intended to unveil the constituency delimitation details on October 9. Subsequently, it would entertain applications related to objections and recommendations between October 10 and December 9. The overall process was anticipated to conclude by December 14.

Oversight Committee Ensured

The ECP has also established a high-level oversight committee to ensure timely receipt of all relevant materials and data for the delimitation process. The committee, led by the special secretary of the commission, was constituted to ensure the smooth progression of the process.

During a meeting at the commission secretariat, the ECP secretary reviewed the election preparations, which was attended by the special secretary, director general (law), provincial election commissioners, and senior officers.

The secretary expressed contentment with the arrangements made so far and directed the relevant officials to swiftly finalise all arrangements, coordinate with concerned institutions, and ensure the availability of necessary election materials.

Furthermore, the ECP has also appointed a retired government official Dr Syed Asif Hussain as the first-ever special adviser on elections in grade 22. The decision was made to accommodate the impending workload associated with the upcoming general polls.