1. Pakistan’s recent election results bring a mix of electoral victories, security challenges, and voting integrity concerns.
2. The election day was marred by violence and internet shutdowns, adding complexity to the electoral process.
3. As counting continues, the nation awaits further developments amidst heightened tensions and calls for maintaining calm.
Islamabad, Feb 09: The aftermath of Pakistan’s recent election sees the country grappling with a mix of developments, including electoral victories, security challenges, and concerns about the integrity of the voting process.
1. Polling and Counting Process
- Following a day marked by violence and internet shutdowns, Pakistan conducted its election to select a new government.
- Despite disruptions, over 12 crore voters cast their ballots nationwide.
- As of now, official results for only 13 out of the 265 contested seats have been declared.
2. Seat Distribution
- Notable wins include five seats secured by candidates backed by Imran Khan’s party, contesting as independents.
- The Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N), led by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, clinched four seats.
- The Pakistan Peoples Party, led by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, won three seats.
- A public holiday was declared to facilitate voting, with counting beginning promptly after the polls closed.
3. Security Incidents
- Tragically, at least five Pakistani police personnel lost their lives in a terror attack in Dera Ismail Khan during polling.
- Mobile phone services were temporarily suspended to enhance security measures.
- Polling was postponed on at least one seat following a fatal gun attack on a candidate in Bajaur.
4. Nawaz Sharif’s Victory
- Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif emerged victorious in the Lahore seat, securing a significant lead of over 55,000 votes against Yasmin Rashid.
5. Allegations by PTI
- Imran Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), raised concerns about attempts to manipulate election results.
- PTI alleged that the unprecedented voter turnout, indicative of their potential victory, was being undermined by the withholding of results and the alteration of Form 45.
- The party urged citizens to protect their votes and prevent manipulation by mobilizing to polling stations and electoral offices.
6. UN Chief’s Call for Calm
- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed for a calm atmosphere during the tabulation of election results.
- Expressing concern over reports of violence and casualties, as well as the suspension of mobile communications services, Guterres emphasized the importance of refraining from actions that could escalate tensions.
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In the wake of these developments, Pakistan awaits the finalization of election results while grappling with security challenges and allegations of electoral misconduct.
