ECP to delimit constituencies without digital census

ISLAMABAD: Without waiting for a digital census to be held, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday decided to immediately go for delimitation of national and provincial assemblies as per the 2017 national census.

In this connection, Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja presided situation and time constraints, the commission decided to immediately delimit the National and Provincial Assemblies and complete the exercise within four months.

In response to a letter from President Dr Arif Alvi, the commission explained the related scenario and background. While informing him that the general elections are possible in October this year. Also sought four additional months besides 90 days to complete its preparations, including the delimitation of constituencies.

Also Read: Response to president’s letter: Polls possible in Oct: ECP

In its meeting, the commission directed writing to provincial governments for provision of maps and other data. To the commission immediately, so that it could timely complete the work. The commission directed the ECP secretary and special secretary to submit a complete action plan for the general elections to the commission by April 13. Also ensure monitoring and timely completion of all matters.

On the occasion, Raja said he is playing his constitutional role for the betterment of the country. Continuity of the democratic process, transparency and rule of law and would continue to do so.