ECP says 1,847 nomination papers issued for Islamabad LG polls over weekend

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has rejected reports that nomination papers for the upcoming Islamabad local government elections were not issued over the weekend, saying 16 Returning Officers (ROs) distributed 1,847 forms between October 30 and November 1. In a clarification issued on Monday, the ECP spokesperson said the reports followed claims made by a political office bearer during an interview with a private news channel. The individual had alleged that nomination papers were unavailable from Friday to Sunday because the Returning Officers' offices remained closed. The spokesperson described the claims as misleading and inconsistent with official records, warning that such statements could cause confusion among voters and potential candidates. According to the ECP's records, all relevant RO offices remained open throughout the three-day period, with 16 Returning Officers issuing a combined total of 1,847 nomination papers. The commission urged the public and prospective candidates to obtain election-related information only from verified official sources. It also clarified that candidates could collect and submit their nomination papers at the offices of their respective Returning Officers until November 6.