The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has said that it is mandatory to hold the presidential elections within 30 days after the general elections, according to Article 41(4) of the Constitution.

“The election commission will issue the schedule of the presidential election and public notice on March 1,” it said in a statement. “According to the Constitution, one day will be given to submit the nomination papers.”

The election commission further said that the nomination papers can be submitted to any presiding officer by 12pm on March 2.

“All the presidential candidates can get the nomination papers from the ECP secretariat in Islamabad or any provincial election commissioner,” the statement said.

The electoral watchdog also cited Articles 91 and 130 of the Constitution which stated that the National Assembly shall meet on the 21st day following the general elections.

The ECP said all the assemblies will be formed by Feb 29, paving the way for the presidential election.