RAWALPINDI: According to unofficial figures, 1,940 nomination papers have been filed today for the 300 general seats of the National Assembly for the forthcoming general elections in the country. With the figures for two seats yet to be available, the number will rise by at least a few more. Of the total figures available, 870 nominations were filed for 182 seats from East Pakistan and 1,070 for 132 seats from West Pakistan.

In West Pakistan 617 nominations were filed for 82 seats of Punjab, 227 for 27 from Sind, 30 for four seats in Baluchistan and 196 for 23 seats from NWFP and the tribal areas — figures for 2 seats from these areas are yet to be received.

Scenes witnessed at the Offices of the Returning Officers to whom the nomination papers were submitted were marked with great popular enthusiasm. There was a great rush as candidates along with their supporters came one after the other to file their nomination papers. …

Meanwhile, a Press Note of the Election Commission said today [Oct 15] that appeals against rejection of nomination papers for the National Assembly will be heard by the Commission from Oct 21.

Published in Dawn, October 16th, 2020