QUETTA: The nomination process for the by-election in National Assembly constituency (NA-262) of Quetta has completed, with a total of 23 papers filed by independent and political party contenders.

The seat had fallen vacant following the disqualification of Adil Bazai, a member of PML-N, due to his defection. According to the Election Commission, polling in the constituency that primarily comprises Saddar and Kuchlak tehsils of Quetta will take place on Jan 16.

Returning Officer Naimatullah Tareen released Form 31, listing the names of all 23 candidates vying for the seat: Ahmed Nawaz, Sarbuland Khan Jogezai, Malik Ahmed Khan Kakar, Abdul Qasim, Ahmed Basal, Abdul Manan, Alauddin, Muhammad Ramzan Achakzai, Rahimuddin, Noor Ali, Azizullah, Muhammad Suleman, Muhammad Yousaf Khan, Saeedul Hasan, Malik Sikandar Khan, Rozi Khan Kakar, Malik Ajmal Khan Bazai, Muhammad Asif, Abdul Wali Khan, Naseebullah Bazai, Rehmatullah Kakar, Naseer Ahmed Khan, and Nawab Salman Khelji.

The scrutiny of nomination papers will take place on Dec 12, followed by an appeals process on decisions by the RO that can be filed till Dec 16.

A final list of candidates will be issued on Dec 22.

Published in Dawn, December 9th, 2024