The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has reserved its verdict on a petition seeking early local government elections in the federal capital.
Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani, presiding over the case, highlighted that the local government system in Islamabad remains paralyzed, with legal provisions being repeatedly violated. He noted that the absence of elections has disrupted governance, including the collection of property taxes and delivery of public services. The judge also expressed concern over the suspension of elections by a division bench after initially approving a schedule.
During proceedings, the Assistant Attorney General admitted that the law has been continuously violated since 2021, citing delays due to pending legislation on local government elections. Election Commission DG Law Arshad Khan added that complications in the Local Government Act 2025 amendments contributed to the delays. Justice Kayani pressed the commission on when a schedule for elections would be provided, noting that the court is ready to set a date once the schedule is submitted.
After hearing all arguments, the IHC reserved its decision. Citizens and stakeholders are now awaiting the ruling, which could pave the way for resuming local governance in Islamabad.
