KARACHI, Sept 26:
Low voter turnout in the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) elections for 2026-28 has raised questions about the level of participation of its membership, while the absence of female candidates from both contesting groups has highlighted concerns about gender representation in the business community.
According to figures cited during the election process, around 17,000 members are registered with the KCCI, but only a relatively small number participated in the polling. It was also pointed out that 543 fewer votes were cast in the 2026 elections compared with the previous election.
The development has prompted questions about member participation in the chamber’s electoral process despite extensive election campaigns and gatherings organised by the competing groups.
Another issue highlighted by observers was the absence of any female candidate among those contesting the elections from either group, raising concerns about the representation of women in the chamber’s elected bodies.
Meanwhile, members of the Businessmen Alliance (BMA) expressed reservations about the conduct of the election and alleged irregularities in the issuance of ballot papers. They claimed that complaints had been received regarding ballot papers being issued without complete voter identification and verification.
The BMA members also questioned the role of the election administration and regulatory oversight. They claimed that officials of the Directorate General of Trade Organisations (DGTO) were not visible in the polling area when some complaints were being raised.
The group said it was documenting different stages of the polling process through photographs and videos and would submit the material to the DGTO for examination.
Voters present at the polling venue also called upon the KCCI management to ensure that the elections were conducted transparently and strictly in accordance with the prescribed election rules applicable to all candidates.
