ECP sets Feb 7, 2027 date for first phase of Punjab LG polls

The first phase of local government elections in Punjab will be held on February 7, 2027, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) announced on Thursday, accepting the provincial government’s request to avoid polling during the fog-prone winter period.

The commission had earlier proposed December 14 for the elections. However, Punjab officials sought a date after January 20, citing poor visibility, shorter daylight hours and the time needed to complete arrangements.

The decision was taken by a four-member ECP bench headed by Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja during a hearing on the local government polls. Members Nisar Ahmed Durrani, Shah Muhammad Jatoi and Babar Hassan Bharwana were also part of the bench, according to an ECP statement.

Punjab Chief Secretary and Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafique, along with the department’s secretary, appeared before the commission.

The chief secretary told the ECP that the provincial government was ready to hold the elections and had completed the necessary preparations. He said the requested information about the appointment of returning officers and district returning officers had also been submitted, adding that there were no administrative hurdles to announcing the election schedule.

He said the government had no objection to holding the polls but wanted them scheduled after January 20 to allow better weather and sufficient time for arrangements.

The chief secretary pointed out that dense fog in December and January, particularly in Lahore, could disrupt transport and other election-related activities. He also cited limited daylight during winter and said the administration needed additional time to arrange transport and prepare school buildings for use as polling stations.

An ECP member noted that the provincial government had earlier proposed holding the elections in April. In response, the chief secretary said the government was now willing to hold the polls in January or February, although April would offer longer daylight hours and coincide with school holidays.

He added that cold weather and shorter days could affect voter turnout.

The ECP observed that the Constitution and the Elections Act, 2017, required it to organise local government elections in the provinces, Islamabad Capital Territory and cantonment boards. It referred to Articles 140A, 219(d) and 218(3) of the Constitution, which place responsibility on the commission to conduct elections fairly and in accordance with the law.

The commission accepted the provincial government’s request, saying the decision was made in the interest of justice and to ensure a level playing field for candidates and voters. Its office was directed to take further action.