ECP Rejects KPK Govt’s Request to Postpone Local Election District Redistricting

ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) dismissed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s plea to postpone the delimitation exercise slated for 24 districts ahead of local government elections. According to informed sources, the KP government had initially sought a delay of 180 days in carrying out the demarcation.

The chief secretary’s letter to the ECP highlighted several reasons behind the delay: provincial plans to amend the Local Government Act, 2013; poor weather conditions and security issues in some areas. However, the ECP maintained that it was bound by existing laws including Article 140-A of the Constitution, Article 222(6) of the Elections Act, 2013, Sections 17, 219, and 221 of the same act.

Sources reported that in its response, the ECP stressed that consultations with the provincial government were not necessary for the delimitation exercise. The ECP emphasized adherence to existing laws while noting the province’s authority to legislate amendments. It further clarified that population data would be utilized during the process and electoral rolls weren’t required.

The ECP’s statement underscored its commitment to adhering to established procedures, having already completed initial demarcations in 23 districts as of March 5, 2026, with preliminary results published publicly. It also began receiving objections to ensure timely elections despite weather challenges and security concerns, as population data was central to the exercise.

Sources revealed that the provincial government had been informed about areas requiring new district creation or altered revenue boundaries. They requested for specific information on tehsil councils, village councils, and neighborhood councils in these districts along with relevant data and maps. This would enable the ECP to issue a schedule for demarcation in those regions.

The ECP’s decision reiterates its independence and commitment to upholding legal obligations despite the province’s plans for legislative changes. Its stance highlights the balance between governance prerogatives and electoral processes, leaving the provincial government with a clear understanding of the ECP’s role in delimitation exercises.