The elections, scheduled for February 8, 2024, are raising fears about low voter turnout, particularly in the province’s rugged topography. As the long-awaited general elections in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) approach, the province faces an unexpected challenge: harsh winter weather.
Residents in Chitral, Kalam Valley, and Naran express concern about voting in the midst of snow-covered landscapes and difficult roads. The severity of the cold is interfering with daily living, casting question on the viability of voting.
“During the snowfall period, moving around is very difficult as roads are blocked and are often not cleared for days on end,” says Safat Khan of Utror in Kalam Valley.
Similarly, people of Batakundi, Naran, are contemplating relocating to warmer climates, limiting their participation in the political process even further.
Politician’s Concerns:
Not just people, but also political figures, have expressed their concerns. The Chairman of the PTI-P, Parvez Khattak, has urged the Election Commission to rethink the schedule, stressing the negative impact on provinces such as Hazara and Malakand.
On the contrary, Atif Khan of the PTI underlines the need of proactive steps, encouraging the Election Commission to address logistical issues in order to achieve high voter turnout.
As the debate continues, the K-P elections face an unexpected natural challenge, spurring talks on potential changes to ensure greater citizen participation.
