Govt raises education bar for LG polls, sets 14 years for Chairmen

According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Local Government & Rural Development, candidates seeking to contest for chairman must have at least

ISLAMABAD: The government has introduced minimum educational qualifications for candidates contesting local government elections, setting a 14-year education requirement for chairmen and 12 years for councillors.

According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Local Government & Rural Development, candidates seeking to contest for chairman must have at least 14 years of education, equivalent to a BA/BSc degree, while councillor candidates must possess a minimum of 12 years of education, equivalent to FA/FSc.

The notification, dated 20 August 2026, requires candidates to submit attested copies of their educational certificates or degrees along with their nomination papers as proof of eligibility.

It further states that candidates providing false information or concealing facts may have their candidature rejected at any stage, while legal action may also be initiated against them.

Officials and sources familiar with the development described the decision as a significant move toward promoting merit, transparency and greater participation of educated youth in local politics.

Supporters of the measure said it could help reduce the influence of dynastic politics, feudal interests and nepotism by creating greater opportunities for candidates from ordinary households.

The initiative is also being viewed as an attempt to encourage educated young people to enter public service and play a greater role in local governance and community development.

The Local Government Department, Islamabad issued the notification on 18 August 2026.