The Sindh government has declared a public holiday in Umerkot district on April 17 (Wednesday) in connection with the by-election scheduled for National Assembly constituency NA-213.
According to a notification issued by the Services, General Administration and Coordination Department (SGA&CD), the public holiday will be observed in Umerkot to facilitate the electoral process and ensure maximum voter participation.
The seat fell vacant following the demise of veteran politician Nawab Muhammad Yousuf Talpur, who was elected as Member of the National Assembly (MNA) from NA-213 in the February 2024 general elections.
A long-time Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) stalwart, Mr Talpur passed away shortly after the polls, triggering the need for a by-election in the constituency.
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had earlier announced that polling for the by-election would be held on April 17. Preparations for the electoral exercise are underway, with the district administration coordinating with the ECP to ensure a smooth and transparent process.
The constituency holds significance for the PPP, with the party having maintained a strong foothold in Umerkot over successive election cycles.