By Commerce Reporter
LAHORE — The Election Commission of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry, while briefing members about the election arrangements, said that its top priority is to ensure transparent, well-organized, peaceful and lawful elections. All necessary arrangements are being completed for this purpose.
The Election Commission informed members that, under the law, the election schedule had to be finalized by July 15, 2026. Accordingly, the election schedule, including the suitable venue, was finalized in the Executive Committee meeting held on July 13, 2026. The Election Commissioners were also appointed at the same meeting, including the Election Commission Members, Malik Khalid Gujjar, Sheikh Sajjad Afzal and Shahid Baig.
The Election Commission expressed its special thanks and appreciation to Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and Director General Trade Organizations (DGTO) Bilal Pasha for their important steps to make the elections transparent and reliable. The Election Commission said that the Ministry of Commerce and DGTO have established an online portal under the Pakistan Single Window (PSW) to make the election process more transparent and technology-based. Through this portal, all trade organizations will submit their election notifications and other relevant information, creating a centralized and verifiable record of the election process. The Election Commission also appreciated the effective use of technology and the appointment of two observers to monitor the elections, saying that this will further strengthen the transparency, impartiality and credibility of the election process. These comprehensive measures and independent monitoring will help ensure that the elections are conducted in a transparent, organized and lawful manner and will also reduce the chances of any dispute or legal challenge after the elections.
The Election Commission said that some members have submitted a request to the Director General Trade Organizations regarding holding the LCCI elections at the Lahore Chamber building. The request raises concerns about managing a large number of voters and the availability of parking. The Election Commission said that until a decision is received from the DGTO on this request, all necessary arrangements are being completed at the Lahore Chamber premises for holding the elections.
The Election Commission said that alternative venues were also considered. The LCCI contacted Flatties Hotel Lahore, but the required hall was not available. The management of Expo Centre Lahore was also contacted and informed that its facilities are mainly reserved for commercial activities and trade promotion and are not suitable for holding elections. After considering all these factors, the Lahore Chamber premises remain the most suitable and practical option for holding the elections under the current circumstances.
Regarding parking, the Election Commission said that parking arrangements have been made at several locations for the convenience of members. In addition, two event halls adjacent to the Lahore Chamber have been booked by election candidates, where parking facilities are also available. The Election Commission said that proper security and traffic management arrangements have also been made for election day. Punjab Police will provide security, while private security guards will also be deployed.
The Election Commission is also in continuous contact with the Chief Traffic Officer Lahore to ensure smooth traffic flow and proper parking management on election day. The Election Commission further said that there is also parking capacity for more than 100 vehicles along the road.
The Election Commission expressed its commitment that there will be no room for disorder, discrimination or unnecessary interference during the elections. All arrangements are aimed at providing every member with a safe, organized and suitable environment to exercise their right to vote.
The Election Commission said that elections are a formal legal process and that it will perform its responsibilities with complete impartiality, transparency and in accordance with the law. All candidates are also expected to respect the election process, discipline and all relevant rules and regulations.
The Election Commission assured members that all relevant information regarding the arrangements will be provided transparently and that it remains fully available to provide any information or clarification required on legitimate questions regarding the election arrangements.