The Elections Commission (EC) has announced a temporary suspension of new political party memberships following allegations of unauthorised registrations.

The move comes after numerous complaints were lodged, including reports of individuals being added to party lists without their consent. 

In an official statement, the Commission revealed that its membership registration portal will stop accepting new applications from January 30. This suspension will remain in place until February 15, allowing time for the system to be upgraded with enhanced safeguards to verify the authenticity of future applications.

Despite the halt, EC has assured the public that membership forms can still be submitted via the primary portal during this period. However, these applications will now undergo more rigorous scrutiny to prevent further irregularities.

The Elections Commission described the suspension as a necessary step to restore trust and ensure greater transparency in the admission process.