The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has scheduled Islamabad’s local government elections for December 20, 2026. Polling will take place across the federal capital from 8am to 4pm. The announcement sets out key deadlines for candidates and outlines the process leading to election day.
According to the schedule, the ECP will issue a public notice inviting nominations on October 30. Candidates can submit their nomination papers from November 2 to 6. Officials will publish the candidates’ list on November 7 before beginning the scrutiny process.
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Returning officers will examine nomination papers from November 9 to 13. Candidates can challenge their decisions through appeals filed between November 14 and 18. The relevant authorities will decide these appeals from November 19 to 23.
The commission will release the final list of candidates on November 25. Election symbols will be allocated the following day, November 26. These steps will establish the final field of candidates contesting the local government elections.
The ECP has also introduced restrictions on administrative changes following the schedule announcement. Transfers and postings of government officials in Islamabad now require the commission’s prior approval. The measure applies during the election process as authorities prepare for polling.
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Meanwhile, the commission has stressed compliance with the electoral code of conduct. It aims to maintain a transparent and fair process throughout the election period. The ECP has also directed that its offices and those of returning officers remain operational despite public holidays.
The commission plans to announce the election results between December 21 and 24. The December 20 vote will determine local government representation in Islamabad under the 2015 law. Candidates must complete nomination, scrutiny and appeal procedures within the announced deadlines before contesting the elections.