The Election Commission is empowered to declare a poll void under which Section of Elections Act?

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is empowered to declare a poll void under Section 9 of the Elections Act, 2017. This crucial section allows the ECP to nullify election results if it is satisfied that corrupt or illegal practices, or any other material irregularity, have vitiated the election process to such an extent that the true outcome cannot be ascertained. This power is vital for upholding the integrity and fairness of the electoral system.

• Section 65 of the Elections Act deals with election petitions, which are filed in election tribunals, not the ECP's direct power to void a poll.
• Section 6 outlines the general powers of the Election Commission, but Section 9 specifically addresses the power to declare a poll void.
• Section 70 pertains to other procedural aspects, such as the finality of election results, but not the initial power to void a poll.