ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has dismissed assertions that the upcoming general elections might face a delay, emphasizing its readiness for the scheduled date of February 8.

The ECP responded to concerns raised by a political party, stating that the election schedule is pending, leading to growing apprehension about the unfolding situation.

A setback for the election organizing authority occurred when the Lahore High Court (LHC) suspended the ECP’s notification, which had requested returning officers (ROs) from the bureaucracy for the general elections on February 8, 2024. This decision came in response to a petition filed by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

In a press conference, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan expressed “fears” of potential election delays, alleging that the ECP had already shifted the elections forward while claiming excuses.

He pointed out that the election schedule, expected on that day, had not been released by the ECP.

In response, the ECP rejected the claims made by the PTI chairman, characterizing them as an attempt to mislead the public.

The electoral body affirmed that the polls are scheduled for February 8 and assured that all necessary preparations have been made for their smooth conduct. The ECP explained that district returning officers (DROs) and returning officers had been appointed, and their training was in progress, emphasizing the importance of training for a seamless electoral process.

However, the ECP acknowledged that the PTI had contested the appointment of these officers in the LHC, leading to their suspension. The commission stated that it is currently evaluating the situation and will soon announce a plan of action. It emphasized that the current circumstances cannot be attributed to any fault on the part of the commission.