ECP Issues Delimitation Schedule for Local Government Elections in Islamabad, Punjab, and KP
Islamabad: Preparations for local government elections in Islamabad, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) have gained momentum after the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) issued the schedule for the delimitation of constituencies.
According to an ECP statement, the delimitation process for local government elections in the federal capital has begun. The formal exercise will commence on August 1, 2026, and is scheduled to be completed by October 13, 2026.
The commission said that in Punjab, the final delimitation list will be published on August 17, 2026, after the disposal of objections. Following the completion of the process, the ECP will consult the Punjab government regarding the date for holding local government elections.
The ECP also stated that the delimitation process has already been completed in 23 districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. However, the provincial government has amended the Local Government Act by increasing the population threshold from 30,000 to 40,000. It has also requested an additional three weeks from the ECP to make further amendments to Schedule 9 of the law.
The Election Commission said it has completed its preparations for conducting local government elections in Islamabad, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The commission noted that under Article 140-A of the Constitution and Section 219 of the Elections Act, it is constitutionally required to hold local government elections within 120 days.
The ECP also expressed concern that federal and provincial governments frequently amend local government laws close to the election period. It said its proposal for timely legislative amendments was rejected, while the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs maintained that lawmaking is the exclusive authority of Parliament.
