The Election Commission of Pakistan turned down a request from Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti to postpone upcoming local government elections in Quetta, ruling that the vote will take place on the previously announced date. Bugti had urged a delay earlier this week, arguing that the worsening law and order situation and the ongoing suspension of internet services made it unsafe and impractical to conduct elections in the provincial capital.

In a written order issued on Wednesday, the Commission reaffirmed that polling in Quetta district will be held on December 28, 2025, and directed all state institutions to extend full cooperation as required under the Constitution. The order stressed that every possible support must be provided to the bodies responsible for conducting the polls and called for stringent security measures to safeguard voters, candidates, polling staff, and the public.

The Commission emphasised that peaceful polling must be ensured without any disruption. However, member Shah Muhammad disagreed with the decision in a dissenting note, warning that severe winter conditions could significantly reduce voter turnout. He pointed out that residents often migrate to other districts during the winter season, which could further impact participation in the electoral process.