- Advertisement -
ISLAMABAD, Dec 10 (APP):The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has authorized District Returning Officers (DROs) and Returning Officers (ROs) in Islamabad to serve as Magistrates First Class during the upcoming local government elections.
The move empowers them to conduct summary trials of electoral offences, aiming to ensure swift justice and maintain order during the polls.
According to a notification issued under Articles 140A(2) and 218(3) of the Constitution and Section 193 of the Elections Act 2017, the magisterial powers take immediate effect and will remain in force until the consolidation and official announcement of results for the polls scheduled on February 15, 2026.
The designated officers have been empowered to act against offences outlined in Sections 169 and 171 of the Elections Act, which carry penalties under Section 174. They are also authorized to take cognizance of such violations under Section 190 of the Criminal Procedure Code and to conduct summary trials in line with Chapter XX of the Code.