Previously, the ECP had indicated January 2024 as the election month but had not specified a date.
ISLAMABAD: The much-awaited general elections in Pakistan are officially scheduled to take place on February 8, according to an announcement by the President House. The decision was made after a meeting between top election officials and President Arif Alvi, following directives from the Supreme Court.
The announcement follows a period of uncertainty and conflicting information, as earlier in the day, the Election Commission lawyer had informed the Supreme Court that elections were to be held on February 11. The meeting between Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja, Attorney General Mansoor Usman Awan, and four members of the electoral body with President Alvi aimed to resolve the confusion.
“The President heard about the progress the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has made in delimitation and for elections. After a detailed discussion, the meeting unanimously agreed to hold general elections in the country on February 8, 2024,” stated the President’s Office.
Previously, the ECP had indicated January 2024 as the election month but had not specified a date. The Supreme Court had taken up petitions calling for elections within 90 days after the dissolution of the National Assembly and provincial legislatures.
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During the hearing, the ECP’s lawyer, Sajeel Swati, clarified that the final list of constituencies would be published on December 5, with all arrangements, including drawing constituencies, completed by January 29. Consequently, the decision was made to hold elections on February 8, aligning with the Supreme Court’s order.
The timing of the election announcement coincides with ongoing talks between Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for the release of the $710 million second tranche of a $3 billion loan, crucial for stabilizing Pakistan’s debt-ridden economy. The clarity on the election date brings an end to uncertainties, setting the stage for a crucial electoral process in the cash-strapped country.
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