Independent Report
ZHOB: The Election Commission of Pakistan has stepped up efforts to ensure greater electoral participation for persons with disabilities, convening a key session of the Gender & Disability Electoral Working Group in Zhob. The meeting was chaired by Regional Election Commissioner Sardar Mazhar Hussain and attended by government officials, political representatives, local government members, social welfare authorities, disabled voters, and members of the press.
District Election Commissioner Safdar Nasir, Assistant Election Commissioner Saifullah Safi, and political leaders including Fazal Amin Mandokhail, Bacha Khan Babar, Mitha Khan, and Sajid Bangash, along with local government representative Noor Gul Kharoti, took part in the discussions.
Officials highlighted the challenges faced by disabled voters, noting that the postal ballot system—which allows eligible voters to cast ballots from home—remains underutilized due to limited awareness. They emphasized the need for a comprehensive public awareness campaign to ensure that all citizens can exercise their constitutional rights.
The session concluded with recommendations for a coordinated effort involving political parties, civil society, and local authorities to educate and empower disabled voters. Participants committed to ongoing collaboration to protect the rights of persons with disabilities and promote their meaningful participation in democratic processes.
