The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has turned down Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti’s request to postpone the local government elections in Quetta, confirming that polling will be held on December 28, 2025, as originally scheduled.
In its written order, the ECP stated that the Balochistan government must fully cooperate with the commission and all relevant institutions to ensure smooth and transparent elections. It also directed authorities to make foolproof security arrangements, protecting voters, candidates, polling staff, and the general public.
Despite the commission’s firm stance, ECP member Shah Muhammad recorded a dissenting note. He warned that Quetta’s harsh December cold could significantly reduce voter turnout, as many residents temporarily move to other districts during winter. He also raised concerns about the law and order situation in parts of Balochistan, recommending that elections be delayed until weather and security conditions improve.
However, the ECP maintained that all constitutional requirements must be followed and assured that adequate arrangements, including security deployment, will be in place to conduct the elections fairly and safely.
The upcoming local body elections mark an important moment for Quetta’s governance structure. It is noteworthy that the Balochistan High Court (BHC) had already dismissed similar petitions on October 10, directing the ECP to hold the elections “as soon as possible.”
