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[VIDEOS] What impact will the rigging in the 2024 General Election have on Pakistan?

What an epic meme😂
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Yep,they know they have their men everywhere​

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CM Bugti advises political rivals to take rigging complaints to appropriate forums​

Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti has advised all the political parties in the province to take the alleged rigging reservations to the appropriate forums.

Speaking on Geo News programme Jirga, the PPP leader echoed the stance of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, saying that those contending the election results should take the legal route rather than cause chaos.

Source: Dawn News
 

PTI holds Sindh-wide protests against workers’ arrest, poll rigging​

Like other parts of the country, the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf on Sunday held multiple demonstrations in Karachi and other parts of Sindh in protest over what it called ’fraudulent“ elections.

In Karachi, PTI workers and supporters, including women and children, gathered in North Nazimabad, Hyderi Market, Liaquatabad, Guru Mandir, Paracha Chowk Shershah, Korangi, Lyari, Keamari, etc.

They were carrying portraits of party founder Imran Khan and banners inscribed with slogans against the alleged rigging in the Feb 8 elections.

They also staged a rally from Guru Mandir traffic intersection towards the VIP Gate of Mazar-i-Quaid.

Source: Dawn News
 

Price for aiding in rigging? 🤔​

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CEC 'swayed' with promises of ambassadorship in return for favours, alleges PT​

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Omar Ayub Khan alleged on Friday that Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikander Sultan Raja was 'swayed' with promises of ambassadorship in return for favours by the incumbent government.

Speaking to the media alongside PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and former speaker National Assembly (NA) Asad Qaiser, Ayub claimed that CEC was promised future posting as the country's envoy to Canada in exchange for cooperation.

The PTI leader also accused the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) of betraying the Pakistan Peoples Party(PPP). Citing the Federal Minister of Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar’s statement about upcoming criminal law amendments in the National Assembly. He said the amendments were connected to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation's visit and questioned the connection between undisclosed criminal law changes with the IMF visit.

“What is the connection between Pakistan's criminal law and the IMF," he asked.

Gohar, seconding Ayub's sentiments, emphasised the significance of legislation being within the prerogative of the parliament. he also criticised the commencement of legislative proceedings without proper adherence to legal protocols. “Today, the first day of legislation has been initiated by breaking the law," Gauhar stressed.

Source: The Express Tribune
 
Whatever tattered veil was left on all institutions is completely torn off after the 8 Feb election,
 
PTI plans long march, sit-in against ‘rigging’ after Eid

The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf has plans to hold a long march and sit-in after Eidul Fitr against “massive rigging and stealing of public mandate”.

The PTI has also decided not to enter into any dialogue with the incumbent government until and unless real public mandate is returned to the party.

“No dialogue, no move on until the stolen mandate will be returned,” said PTI leader Shaukat Basra while speaking to media persons outside Punjab Assembly on Monday.

He said the PTI was in consultation with other parties and contesting these cases in state institutions, though without any hope, to get back the public mandate.

He said the president, prime minister and Punjab chief minister had robbed the nation of their mandate and ‘are ruling at gunpoint’. He asserted that the Form-45 elected representatives would soon oust the ‘fake’ rulers. He said Nawaz Sharif was defeated by Dr Yasmin Rashid and similarly Shehbaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz were defeated.

Mr Basra said the rulers were afraid of PTI founder chairman Imran Khan as he had shunned all efforts to convince him for a deal.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
Donald Lu calls for probe into allegations of poll rigging in Pakistan

During a Congressional hearing in Washington on Wednesday, US Assistant Secretary of State for South Asia, Donald Lu, stressed the importance of investigating allegations of interference or rigging in Pakistan's recent general elections.

Speaking before a subcommittee of the US House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Lu highlighted the need for transparency and accountability in addressing claims of electoral irregularities.

Lu appeared before a subcommittee of the US House Committee on Foreign Affairs at a hearing titled ‘Pakistan After the Elections: Examining the Future of Democracy in Pakistan and the US-Pakistan Relationship’.

The US diplomat pointed out that thousands of petitions have been filed with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), underscoring the urgency for the ECP to hold those responsible for rigging accountable in a transparent manner.

He stressed that it is the responsibility of the ECP to ensure the integrity of the electoral process and uphold democratic principles.

Referring to past instances where the ECP has ordered re-elections for specific constituencies, Lu hinted at the possibility of re-elections if claims of poll irregularities are substantiated. He reiterated the importance of respecting the will of the Pakistani people in determining the outcome of elections.

“It will be an impediment to our relationship if Pakistan does not have a democratic process that upholds its own Constitution. It will retard our ability to have the type of relationship we want in security matters, on business fronts and people to people. All of that suffers if Pakistan is not a full democracy,” he maintained.

Addressing allegations of a conspiracy involving cypher manipulation, Lu dismissed claims made by former prime minister Imran Khan, founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.

He stated that Pakistan’s former ambassador to the US, Asad Majeed, has confirmed the falsity of these allegations. Lu emphasized the US's commitment to respecting Pakistan's sovereignty and allowing its people to choose their leaders without external interference.

“These allegations… these conspiracy theories are a lie… it is not accurate. Then ambassador [Asad Majeed] has testified that there is no conspiracy… we respect the sovereignty of Pakistan… we respect the principle that Pakistani people should decide the leaders,” he maintained in a comment.

Highlighting the importance of the US-Pakistan relationship, Lu acknowledged Pakistan's role in economic development and reiterated US support for Pakistan's efforts to combat terrorism.

He expressed concern over terrorist attacks targeting political leaders and gatherings in Pakistan and emphasised the need for economic reforms in the country.

Lu also commented on the fluctuating relationship between Pakistan and Iran, emphasising US support for Pakistan's economic stability.

Additionally, he revealed that an individual associated with the Indian government was implicated in a conspiracy to kill an American citizen within the United States, underscoring the complexities of regional dynamics.


tribune.com.pk

Donald Lu calls for probe into allegations of poll rigging | The Express Tribune

US diplomat categorically denies Imran Khan’s allegations of a conspiracy involving cypher manipulation as ‘false’
tribune.com.pk tribune.com.pk
 
Imran asks for judicial audit of ‘poll fraud’

PTI founder Imran Khan on Wednesday approached the Supreme Court to seek the constitution of a judicial commission to conduct a thorough audit by inquiring into the manner and process of the Feb 8 general elections, as well as subsequent developments involving the compiling of what he called ‘false’ and ‘fraudulent’ results, rendering winners into losers and losers into winners.

Moved through senior counsel Hamid Khan, the petition, which was jointly filed by Mr Khan and his PTI, contended that members of the commission should consist of Supreme Court judges who hold no bias against anyone.

The petition has also sought the immediate suspension of all consequential acts of forming governments at the centre and in Punjab until the findings of the judicial commission are made public.

The federal government through the law ministry, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), the PML-N, PPP, and MQM-P have been named in the petition as respondents.

The petition regretted that a political party with elected members in the National and provincial assemblies cannot be deprived of reserved seats in these assemblies in proportion to the elected members, in accordance with Article 51 and Article 106 of the Constitution.

In 2015, a judicial commission constituted to probe PTI’s allegations of rigging in the 2013 general elections had concluded that the polls were, in large part, organised and conducted fairly and in accordance with the law.

That commission was formed under a presidential ordinance on April 3, 2015, after months of tug-of-war between the PTI and the PML-N, during which it had recorded testimonies of 69 witnesses, including politicians, government and judicial officers, and journalists.

Now, in the fresh petition, PTI emphasised that the courts in Pakistan cannot turn a blind eye to the allegedly obvious and apparent acts of high-handedness, cruelty, oppression, suppression, and violation of fundamental rights on the part of the caretaker government and the “illegitimately” installed governments at the federal and provincial levels.

The Supreme Court cannot be a spectator in the face of the violation of constitutional provisions and the failure to enforce fundamental rights under the Constitution, the petition pleaded.

The petition emphasises that there was abundant evidence in the form of video clips, media reports, and press statements by local and international media — more than sufficient — to order a judicial probe into the electoral fraud allegedly by ECP to benefit the political parties in power, the petition argued.

It claims that right under the chief election commissioner’s nose, results of hundreds of constituencies were compiled and announced after allegedly being changed under coercion and manipulation and in collusion with the caretaker governments, police officials, and law enforcement agencies.

In several constituencies Form 47 was issued by the returning officer in the most dubious manner, not based upon Form 45, which provided the basis for consolidation of results as required by law and the constitution, the petition alleged.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
The Foreign Office on Thursday said that concerns raised over the Feb 8 general elections during a US Congressional hearing “reflected a misunderstanding” of the country’s domestic situation and electoral laws

The comments come a day after US Assistant Secretary of State Donald Lu told a Congressional panel that if the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) failed to investigate suspicions of irregularities in the Feb 8 elections, it will “retard” America’s relationship with Pakistan.

Asked if the ECP’s failure to investigate irregularities would impact US-Pakistan relations, Lu had said it would be an impediment to the relationship of 76 years if Pakistan did not have a democratic process that upholds its own Constitution.

“It will retard our ability to have the type of relationship we want, in security matters, on [the] business front and people to people. “All that suffers if Pakistan is not a full democracy,” the diplomat had replied.

“We have never used the term ‘free and fair’ in characterizing these elections,” Lu had said in response to a question from Congressman August Pfluger, a Texas Republican.

Responding to a query during a weekly media briefing today, Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said “some statements made there (during the hearing) reflected [a] misunderstanding of Pakistan’s domestic situation and electoral laws.”

According to state broadcaster Radio Pakistan, the spokesperson expressed the hope to “engage in meaningful discussion with the United States to address these misunderstandings.”

Zahra emphasized that Pakistan valued its close relations with the US and believed in constructive engagement with it.

While noting that Pakistan respected the prerogative of legislative bodies to discuss international issues, she emphasized that “the deliberations of these legislative bodies should contribute [to] promoting positive dynamics in bilateral ties based on mutual respect and understanding.”

Dawn
 
I don't know why external powers have been interfering in Pakistan's personal matters for quite a long time.
 
Zaman takes rigging allegations to election tribunal

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Former Parliamentary Leader at Sindh Assembly and NA-241 candidate, Khurrum Sher Zaman, on Friday has submitted the NA-241 rigging case to the election tribunal.

With unwavering hope and belief in the judicial system, Zaman is confident that justice will prevail, ensuring that the mandate of Karachi is rightfully returned to PTI.

Expressing his commitment to upholding democratic principles and fighting against electoral malpractice, Zaman stated, "All necessary documentary and legal procedures have been diligently completed to present our case before the Election Tribunal. I remain optimistic that the esteemed judges of the Tribunal, as well as those in our Supreme Court and High Court, will uphold justice when the time comes."

He raised concerns over the manipulation of Form 45 and 47, which led to his opponent Mirza Ikhtiar Baig from the PPP being declared the winner through unfair means.

“I received 79,530 votes while Baig got only 20,303. The ECP in its Form 45 robbed me of 30,920 votes to bring it down to 48,610 and enhanced Baig’s by 32,153 to 52,456 thus, declaring him the winner.”

Khurrum further emphasised that the blatant manipulation and theft of voters' mandate in NA-241 is unacceptable.

Khurrum reassured the citizens of Karachi that his party remains steadfast in its commitment to reclaim all rightfully won seats in Karachi.

Despite facing challenges and obstacles, the people of Karachi demonstrated their faith in PTI by casting their votes on February 8th, he said.

Zaman also called out PPP Co-Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for accepting tainted victories based on Form 47, urging him to reflect on his party's commitment to democracy and fundamental rights.


tribune.com.pk

Zaman takes rigging allegations to election tribunal | The Express Tribune

PTI leader raises concerns over the alleged manipulation of Form 45 and 47
tribune.com.pk tribune.com.pk
 

Ex-PM Khan party demands EU make report on Pakistan national election public​


Former prime minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Monday demanded the European Union (EU) make its report on last month’s Pakistan national election public, calling it a right of the people of the South Asian country.

Several poll observer groups, including delegations from the EU and Commonwealth, arrived in Pakistan to observe the national election held on February 8.

The election was marred by a mobile network shutdown and delays in release of results, and led to allegations of vote-rigging, mainly by Khan’s PTI party.

Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, PTI spokesperson Raoof Hasan said the EU report, which had been handed over to the government via the election commission, was “extremely critical.”

“We demand European Union make this report public for better conduct of election [in Pakistan] in the future,” he said. “This is a right of the people of Pakistan and they should know how election was conducted in this country.”

Hasan claimed the EU report was a compilation of “pre-poll rigging, polling-day rigging and post-poll rigging.”

The development comes weeks after Peter Stano, the EU lead spokesperson for foreign affairs and security policy, lamented a “lack of a level playing field due to the inability of some political actors to contest the elections, restrictions to freedom of assembly, freedom of expression both online and offline, restrictions of access to the Internet, as well as allegations of severe interference in the electoral process, including arrests of political activists” in Pakistan.

The EU official had called upon Pakistani authorities to ensure a timely and full investigation of all reported election irregularities and to implement the recommendations of the Election Expert Mission report.

Ahead of the polls, Khan’s PTI had been severely hamstrung, with rallies banned, its party symbol taken away, and dozens of its candidates rejected from eligibility to stand.

Khan, who has been in jail since August last year, accuses Pakistan’s powerful military of sidelining him and his party from politics. The military denies Khan’s accusations and says it does not interfere in political matters.

www.arabnews.pk

Ex-PM Khan party demands EU make report on Pakistan national election public

ISLAMABAD: Former prime minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Monday demanded the European Union (EU) make its report on last month’s Pakistan national election public, calling it a right of the people of the South Asian country. Several poll observer groups, including...
www.arabnews.pk www.arabnews.pk
 
After a late-night sitting that continued till the early hours of Saturday morning, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Secretary General Omar Ayub Khan announced a countrywide movement for the rule of law by a coalition of six opposition parties, under the banner of Tehreek Tahafuz Ayeen-i-Pakistan (TTAP).

The movement will not only hold public meetings, starting from Pishin today (on Saturday), but also engage bar associations, university students and other parties for mustering their support for the campaign against the PML-N-led coalition government.

The PTI secretary general said that Pashtoonkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) chairman Mehmood Khan Achakzai was nominated as president of the six parties’ alliance with consensus of the leadership of opposition parties at the hours-long meeting, which was presided over by BNP-M chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal.

He said the movement was being launched against alleged massive rigging in the February 8 elections, with an aim to protect the constitution and resorting rule of law. The alliance rejected the ‘government’ established by tampering with the election result.

Besides the PTI secretary general, Mr Mengal and Mr Achakzai, Sunni Ittehad Council chairman Sahibzada Hamid Raza Khan, Majlis Wahdat Muslimeen Chairman Raja Nasir Abbas and Jamaat-i-Islami leader Liaquat Baloch also attended the meeting.

Mr Ayub said the meeting rejected increase in gas and electricity rates, which made it difficult for the people to earn their livelihoods. “All political parties have joined the opposition alliance of their own will in view of the deteriorating situation in all fields,” he said.

Addressing the press conference, Mr Achakzai said, “None of us is against the army. We have objections to its political role.” He said none of the allies had breached the constitution.

“The Constitution is a social contract and we will start public meetings from Saturday for its protection,” Mr Achakzai said. He also believed there should be no extension in the service of any civil and military officer.

JI’s Liaquat Baloch said the people had been pushed against the wall as their mandate was not being accepted. He said, “I agree with the decision and announcement of the alliance meeting and we will give our stance after the meeting of Jamaat’s Shura.”

Allama Raja Nasir Abbas said that with the support of the masses, they would struggle for the rule of law.

At an earlier presser, the PTI secretary general had announced a public meeting in Pishin on Saturday (today), which will be addressed by the leaders of all the six opposition parties.

Mr Ayub said the protest movement would be initiated from Balochistan and later expanded to other parts of the country.

JUI-F inclusion?

In response to a question about the potential involvement of JUI-F in the protest movement, Mr Ayub said the matter would be discussed further in upcoming meetings of the alliance. He criticised the election results which he claimed originally showed PTI securing 180 seats in the National Assembly, a victory he said was overturned by manipulations involving Form 47, an official electoral document. “Our protest will continue until the peoples’ mandate is restored in PTI’s favour,” he said.

The PTI leader slammed the current administration under President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, labelling them as products of Form 47. He said their government did not represent the people of the country as “they have rejected the parties sitting in the government”.

Mr Ayub expressed concerns about Pakistan’s deteriorating investment climate and increasing unemployment and attributed these to the lack of rule of law. He highlighted the need to restore investor confidence through legal and constitutional reforms. “Investment will come when there is a rule of law,” he said.

He said the PTI was not allowed to hold election meetings. “Our leader was sent to jail on false cases, but they failed to keep the people from supporting Imran Khan,” he said.

Mr Ayub emphasised PTI’s commitment to regional development, particularly in Balochistan, where the party had previously initiated substantial projects. He lamented that these initiatives have stalled since the “regime change”, a reference to Imran Khan’s April 2022 ouster.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
PTI’s Yasmin Rashid moves election tribunal against Nawaz Sharif’s NA-130 victory

Jailed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) senior leader Dr Yasmin Rashid approached the election tribunal to nullify poll victory of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif.

Rashid filed a petition in the election tribunal against the former premier through her lawyers Ahmed Awais and Rana Mudassar.

She stated in her petition that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) violated the law by issuing the notification of Nawaz’s victory after the February 8 nationwide polls.

The politician from the Imran Khan-founded party had contested the general elections 2024 from the NA-130 (Lahore XIV) constituency which she lost against the PML-N’s top leader who secured 171,024 votes while the former came second with 104,485 votes.

However, the PTI leader claimed that she lost the election as results were manipulated in the favour of the PML-N supremo.

Dr Rashid, who also served as Punjab health minister during former premier Imran Khan’s rule, was jailed like other party leaders in multiple cases related to the May 9 riots that occurred last year in which military installations were targeted by protesters following the PTI founder Khan’s arrest in a graft case.


The News
 
PML-N loses two National Assembly seats in one day

The ruling PML-N lost two of its National Assembly seats on Tuesday after separate benches of the Lahore High Court set aside the victory notifications of its lawmakers elected from Gujranwala and Lodhran.

In addition, another PML-N MNA from Nankana Sahib had his victory notification suspended on a petition filed by his PTI-backed opponent.

Meanwhile, incarcerated PTI leader Dr Yasmin Rashid has challenged former prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s victory from Lahore’s NA-130 constituency before an LHC election tribunal.

On Tuesday, LHC Justice Shahid Karim passed an order against NA-81 (Gujranwala) MNA Azhar Qayum Nahra, allowing a petition by PTI-backed independent candidate Chaudhry Bilal Ijaz.

The petitioner’s counsel contended that his client was initially declared elected by 7,791 votes. However, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) conducted a recount on a request of the respondent, Mr Nahra, after which he was declared victorious with a margin of 3,100 votes.

At least 10,000 votes of the petitioner were declared cancelled in the recount, the counsel said.

He argued that the commission violated the law by allowing a recount after the formation of the election tribunals to hear challenges to election disputes and asked the court to strike down the ECP’s impugned recount order for being unlawful.

Justice Karim observed that in ordering the recount, the ECP had ignored the Supreme Court’s ruling. The judge also asked the ECP lawyer if ignoring the Supreme Court’s decision constituted contempt of court.

The judge maintained that the commission could not entertain complaints against election disputes after tribunals had started working, and allowed the petition, setting aside the notification of the respondent’s victory.

Meanwhile, the Bahawalpur bench of the Lahore High Court unseated Abdul Rehman Kanjoo, the PML-N MNA from NA-154 Lodhran, and declared the petitioner, PTI-backed Rana Faraz Noon, as the winner.

According to the PTI candidate’s lawyer Makhdoom Kalimullah Hashmi, the LHC bench, deciding an intra-court appeal (ICA), declared null and void the notification issued by the ECP, regarding Mr Kanjoo’s victory in the Feb 8 general elections.

Mr Kanjoo, a former minister, has also taken oath as an MNA in the National Assembly session.

In both cases, the petitioners — who were runners up in the polls — are likely to be notified as the returned candidates following the success of their pleas.

NA-133 notification suspended

Also on Tuesday, the LHC suspended the victory notification of PML-N’s Rana Arshad from NA-133, Nankana Sahib.

Justice Shahid Karim issued the stay order on a petition filed by PTI-backed independent candidate Mohammad Atif, who pleaded that he was initially declared the returned candidate with a margin of over 3,500 votes.

However, he said, the ECP held a recount on an application of the respondent and declared him victorious by 2,500 votes. He asked the court to set aside the recounting order of the ECP and the impugned notification of the respondent’s victory for being unlawful.

The judge suspended the notification and sought a reply from the ECP and other respondents.

Yasmin’s challenge

Filed through her lawyers, Ahmed Awais and Rana Mudassir, the former Punjab health minister’s petition argued that the ECP issued Mr Sharif’s victory notification in violation of the law.

Previously on Feb 13, the LHC dismissed a writ petition filed by Ms Rashid against Mr Sharif’s victory, directing her to approach the ECP.

On Feb 14, the ECP issued a notification of Mr Sharif’s victory from NA-130.

He won the Feb 8 election with 179,310 votes while Ms Rashid came second with 104,485 votes.

Now, the latter has filed an election petition before the tribunal with a request to set aside the victory of the former prime minister and to declare her returned candidate. She alleged that the ECP manipulated the election results to ensure her defeat.

Balochistan speaker

Separately on Tuesday, the ECP suspended the victory notification of Balochistan Assembly Speaker Abdul Khaliq Khan Achakzai from PB-51, Chaman.

The notification has been suspended until the outcome of re-polling at 12 polling stations, scheduled for April 21, along with by elections in 23 national and provincial assembly constituencies and a re-election in PB-51 (Qila Abdullah).

Meanwhile, the commission also notified Sadaf Ihsan as a returned candidate for the seat reserved for women in the National Assembly from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The notification of her victory was suspended on March 4 after the JUI-F complained that she was not among the names the party had submitted for election to reserved seats.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
Merely 36pc turnout recorded in by-elections: FAFEN

Nearly 36 percent of registered voters cast their votes in the by-elections – nine percent less than the turnout in 18 of 22 constituencies in the 8th February’s general elections, the Free and Fair Election Network said in its report.

The FAFEN maintained that low voter turnout, procedural irregularities, and restrictions on independent observation in two provincial constituencies in Punjab overshadowed the improved results management and lower numbers of ballots excluded from the count during the April 21 elections in 22 national and provincial assembly constituencies.

The report read that votes polled by women decreased by 12 percent, while votes polled by men declined by nine percent despite an increase of 75,640 registered voters, including 37,684 men and 37,956 women compared to the general elections.

Lahore’s five constituencies recorded the sharpest decline in the voter turnout with PP-147 reporting a mere 14 percent as against 35 percent on February 8. Similarly, NA-119 Lahore registered a 19 percent turnout against 39 percent on February 8. However, the voter turnout in Gujrat and Khuzdar constituencies recorded an increase compared to general elections held on February 8.

The FAFEN’s report added that the declining turnout was accompanied by a reduction in the number of ballots excluded from the count during the by-elections, almost halved (35,574) as compared to the number of invalid ballots (72,472) during the general elections. In addition, there were no constituencies where the rejected ballots exceeded the Margin of victory as against four in the general election.

The parties that won during the general elections retained their seats in the by-elections, except in PP-36 Wazirabad and PP-93 Bhakkar. In these constituencies, PTI-backed candidate and an independent candidate had won during the general elections, but PML-N candidates emerged successful in the by-elections. These two were among the four constituencies where the margin of victory has decreased as compared to the general elections unlike the rest where the margin of victory has increased.

According to the Lists of Contesting Candidates (Form-33), a total of 264 candidates including 256 men and eight women contested for the 22 constituencies. Of these 264, 88 candidates represented 21 political parties, while the remaining 176 contested independently.

The ECP had setup 4,238 polling stations – 935 male, 899 female and 2,404 combined – comprising 13,811 polling booths – 6,778 male and 7,033 female – to cater to more than 6.3 million registered voters.


ARY News
 
ECP served notice on K-P CM’s ‘polls rigging’ pleas

The Peshawar High Court on Tuesday issued a notice to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) seeking its response on the petitions filed by Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur against the action taken by the electoral body on the allegations that the February 8 general elections were rigged.

The court also disposed of a writ petition of the K-P CM in a case of alleged rigging in the elections after the JUI-F withdrew its application from the ECP.

A two-judge bench of the PHC comprising its Chief Justice Syed Muhammad Atiq Shah and Justice Khurshid Iqbal heard the petitions filed by Gandapur.

The bench extended the stay order on the ECP taking action against the K-P chief minister.
Besides, it also extended the stay filed against stopping the recount of votes in the constituency of NA-43 Tank.

The K-P CM’s lawyer, Alam Khan Adenzai, informed the court that the ECP had issued a notice to his client on the complaint of his political rivals.

He pointed out that JUI-F’s Kafeel Nizami, who had filed an application against his client, had withdrawn his plea.

He continued that the ECP had not responded to the application filed by Gandapur’s opposing candidates, Ziaullah and Muhammad Junaid.

The court sought a response from the ECP on the applications filed by Ziaullah and Junaid. It also disposed of the case of the JUI-F leader as he had withdrawn his application from the ECP.

Similarly, the bench also extended the injunction on the writ filed against NA-43 Tank vote recount.
Adenzai, who was also representing MNA Dawar Kundi, told the court that 40 polling stations in the constituency had been recounted at the request of JUI’Fs Asad Mahmood and eight on the plea of his client.

However, he continued that Mahmood illegally and unconstitutionally sought recount at 300 polling stations.

The lawyer argued that the ECP no longer had the authority to conduct a recount. The bench stopped the recount by extending the injunction and issued a notice to the ECP seeking its response.

Separately, the two judge bench of the PHC comprising Justices Ijaz Anwar and Shahid Khan asked the K-P advocate general to submit his response by May 2 on a writ filed against the provincial government approving one month’s budget without the approval of the assembly.

PA opposition leader Dr Ibadullah Khan’s lawyer, Aminur Rehman Yousafzai, told the court that the K-P caretaker government had presented a budget for four months under Article 126 of the Constitution.
He continued that the present elected provincial government presented the necessary expenditure budget for the month of March under Article 125 of the Constitution.

He reminded the PHC that in March, it had ordered the K-P speaker to swear in the MPAs on reserved seats at its next session.

However, he continued that to avert the swearing-in of those lawmakers, the provincial government did not call the budget session.

The lawyer told the court that the K-P government presented the budget for the month of April under Article 126 similar to what the caretaker government had done.

In another case, a contempt petition was filed in the PHC as despite its orders, 35 personnel working in the police department -- from grade-16 to grade-17 – had not been promoted with the IGP and additional IG named as parties in the plea.

It was filed by Muhammad Hamid and 34 other workers who had not been promoted against the court’s orders.

In the contempt plea filed through their lawyer, Advocate Saadullah Marwat, the employees pointed out that the PHC, in its order on February 6 this year, had declared that the case of the petitioners, who were working as assistants in grade-16, should be placed before a departmental committee for their promotion to grade-17.

However, they pointed out that despite the passage of two months, neither had they been promoted, nor their case presented before the committee.

SOURCE: EXPRESS TRIBUNE
 
PTI, allies to protest ‘worst-ever’ poll rigging tomorrow

The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), in collaboration with five other opposition parties, will launch a mass protest movement against what it calls “worst-ever rigging” in the general elections and subsequent by-polls, on Friday (tomorrow).

On Wednesday, an online meeting of PTI Punjab office-bearers, MNAs, MPAs and ticket-holders was held to discuss the issue and chalk out a plan for Friday’s protests, which will be held across the country.

Chaired by the party’s Central Punjab general secretary Hammad Azhar, the meeting took stock of the “stealing of PTI-backed candidates’ mandate” in all national and provincial assembly constituencies across Punjab.

The party accuses the Punjab government and Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) of orchestrating rigging in the recent polls.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Azhar said the Maryam Nawaz government, ECP, police and other state institutions maneuvered and altered the results of PTI-backed Sunni Ittehad Council candidates to turn their victories into defeat.

PTI’s Punjab Information Secretary Shaukat Basra said rigging in by-elections had defeated the hopes of the nation. He was of the opinion that the Constitution had been trampled by repeated violation of law and the nation would surely rise to take revenge for their stolen mandate.

Meanwhile, at a press conference in Karachi, PTI Sindh leader Haleem Adil Sheikh said the party had sought permission from the Sindh High Court for tomorrow’s protest, and that they planned to organise another rally near the Mazar-i-Quaid on May 5.

He recalled how official machinery had been used to curtail PTI’s political activities in the past by putting the city in lockdown or denying permission for their rallies.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
‘Raids being conducted to thwart PTI protest’

The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf claims Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has given the IG police a task to conduct raids in Faisalabad division (to arrest workers) ahead of the party’s protest plan for Friday (today).

“The PTI will hold a protest demonstration in Faisalabad as well as all other districts in the province,” asserted PTI Central Punjab general secretary Hammad Azhar.

The PTI will hold protests in collaboration with five opposition parties.

Meanwhile, speaking to the media at the ATC on Thursday, incarcerated PTI leader Dr Yasmin Rashid said only PML-N leaders enter into deals for their release from jails and asserted the PTI would not enter into any deal.

“PML-N leader Rana Sanaullah should not suggest that we enter into a deal,” she said and added, “Our leader will not enter into any deal”.

Dr Rashid said the prosecution was not letting the court proceed on bail applications, which were lying pending for several months.

As PTI leader Sanam Javed was also produced in the court, Dr Rashid said Sanam and Aliya Hamza had become a symbol of resistance as they faced all atrocities and did not give in to pressure.

Another incarcerated leader Senator Ejaz Chaudhry told the media at the ATC that he was being denied to attend the session of the Upper House.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
On the instructions of Imran Khan, protest against rigging, workers came out on the streets in Islamabad, traffic jam

Neo News
 
PTI protesters in Quetta denounce ‘poll rigging’

Like other parts of the country, workers of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), including female supporters, staged a protest in Quetta on Friday against alleged rigging in the February 8 general elections and the arrest of party’s founder Imran Khan and former foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi.

A large number of party workers, led by acting president of PTI Balochistan Khurshid Kakar, provincial vice president Sardar Khadim Hussain Wardag, Noor Khan Khilji, and others, gathered at the lawns of Quetta Metropolitan Corporation to take out a rally. However, police did not allow the rally due to the imposition of Section 144 in the city.

Later, the party workers and supporters, carrying party flags and placards, gathered in front of Quetta Press Club, where they chanted slogans against the government and demanded the immediate release of Mr Khan and Mr Qureshi, who, according to PTI supporters, were “unjustly sentenced in fake cases”.

During the event, party leaders including Asif Tareen, former MNA, Munawara Munir, Mahwah, and others, said that the current rulers are so afraid of PTI that they see PTI even in their dreams at night.

They emphasised that in the general elections, the people of Pakistan voted for PTI’s candidates, echoing PTI Chairman’s call, but through rigging and violence, PTI’s mandate was “snatched away”, insulting the people’s votes. They expressed that the people did not accept governments with fake mandates. Such a government cannot save the country from the current crises but instead complicates the lives of the poor people due to the wrong policies of the current rulers, they added.

They demanded that false cases against PTI chairman and other leaders be immediately dismissed, and they be released with dignity.

The PTI leadership cannot be intimidated by false cases; their spirits are high, and by the grace of Allah, the day is not far when Mr Khan and other leaders will be acquitted of “false cases” with honour.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
This country is a lost cause.


And I sometimes wonder why is IK fighting? Is it even worth the fight and struggle at his age? He can live a life of luxury and yet he chose to die for a hopeless country.
 
UP said:
This country is a lost cause.


And I sometimes wonder why is IK fighting? Is it even worth the fight and struggle at his age? He can live a life of luxury and yet he chose to die for a hopeless country.
Click to expand...
Yep. I guess he should just let this nation die its moral death ( already died actually). This nation will go nowhere until the whole system changes and this is not going to happen anytime soon.
 
JI to take 'bogus Form-47 govt' to Supreme Court

Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) has announced that it will head to the Supreme Court to address the election results and rectify the debacle of bogus Form-47.

JI Ameer Engr Hafiz Naeemur Rehman said that the JI was ready to step up and take the reins in navigating Pakistan out of its current crises, provided that all stakeholders agree to step back.

He further said that the JI will move the apex court to undo the of “bogus Form-47 government”.

He expressed these views during a "meet the press" event held at the Karachi Press Club on Monday.

Addressing the gathering, the newly-elected JI ameer stressed the importance of adhering to constitutional positions by all, including politicians and institutions, to pave the way for progress.

Discussing the ongoing situation, he cautioned against the detrimental effects of internal conflicts within institutions and clashes among state organs, asserting that Pakistan cannot afford such divisions.

He elaborated that it is imperative for all political factions to recognize the gravity of the situation and support the formation of a government based on authentic Form-45s.

Rejecting the fraudulent Form-47 regime, he called for unity among political forces in this regard.The JI leader also expressed his astonishment over the role of the PML-N in the prevailing situation.

He expressed his displeasure over what he called the adjustment of relatives in the governmental setup.

He said that the ambush on the local government elections in Karachi and the general elections across Pakistan paved the way to install a fake government but despite all this, there was no writ of the government in the country.

SOURCE: EXPRESS TRIBUNE
 
Here comes your very own "MOLANA SAHAB".

--------------------------------------

Fazl announces ‘million marches’ against rigging

Delivering his maiden speech in the National Assembly, Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Monday lambasted the “establishment” for “constantly interfering” in politics and announced his party’s plan to launch a protest movement from next month against the alleged rigging in the Feb 8 polls.

The announcement from the JUI-F chief to begin the protest movement with a “million march” in Karachi on May 2 came as the National Assembly hastily passed the Tax Laws (Amendment) Act 2024 after suspending the rules and without allowing a general debate, prompting the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) members to lodge a protest and stage a walkout.

Before staging the walkout and in an effort to block the passage of the bill, a PTI member pointed out lack of quorum, but Speaker Ayaz Sadiq after a headcount declared the house in order and gave the floor to Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar to present the bill for passage.

The JUI-F chief, who had come to the assembly first time after taking oath on Feb 29, announced that his party would hold “million march” in Karachi on May 2 and in Peshawar on May 9 and warned against any efforts to stop them from carrying out the rallies. “This system is not acceptable to us. If anyone tries to stop [protest marches], he will invite trouble for himself,” he warned while asking the PML-N and the PPP to join him, after handing over government to the PTI.

“Out of sympathy, I am asking Nawaz Sharif, [PM] Shehbaz Sharif and my son Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari that if you are the representatives of the people, then let’s face the people together. Leave this power, come and sit here [in the opposition benches] and if the PTI is really a larger group [with seats], then give them the government,” he said, adding that perhaps he would be seen as speaking “foolish things”.

Recalling the country’s checkered political history, the Maulana said the country had most of the time remained either under semi-martial laws or complete martial laws. “Does this parliament represent people or has it been constituted by the establishment?” asked the JUI-F chief while criticising the bureaucracy and the “establishment” for deciding as to who would become the prime minister.

The term “establishment” is generally referred to the military top brass that has always been accused of manipulating the elections and political process in the country. He said the parliament even could not do legislation without the approval of the powerful quarters. “How long we will continue to make compromises? How long we will continue to beg before them [establishment]?” he asked. He said they considered that people’s mandate had been stolen in both the 2018 and 2024 elections. He alleged that they had the reports that the assemblies had been “sold and purchased” in the recent elections.

The JUI-F chief regretted that those who should be “subservient” to the politicians had become their “masters”. He alleged some forces controlled the country from behind the wall, but politicians were put on the front to take the brunt and abusing from the people.

The JUI-F chief also expressed his concerns over the law and order situation and alleged that there was no writ of the state in many parts of the country, especially in Balochistan. He said how the terrorists had returned to the country after becoming more powerful despite successful military operations against them in the past. He recalled that former army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa had announced they had erected a fence on the Pak-Afghan border, then how those 30,000 to 40,000 people managed to cross the border. He said billions of rupees were spent on the border fencing, but “no one is here to be made accountable”.

The Maulana said Pakistan was justified in asking the Afghan government as to why it had been failing to prevent the terrorists from entering Pakistan, “but you are also here on the border”. “Pakistan has become an insecure state. Who is responsible for it?” he said, adding that his party was not allowed to run election campaign. He said despite the Taliban’s announcement that they would not carry out any action during the elections, the JUI-F leaders continued to receive “threat letters”.

“As soon as the elections are over, the threat letters have also been stopped,” he said, while questioning as to how the militants succeeded in targeting the JUI-F function in Bajaur in which 80 people were killed.

The Maulana also endorsed Asad Qaiser’s demand that the PTI should be allowed to hold public meetings as it was its constitutional right.

Earlier, Mr Qaiser had condemned the government for not allowing PTI’s rallies and for arresting party workers. He remarked Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi was the “real prime minister”, but warned that if the PTI was pushed to the wall, they would not let this assembly run.

Tax Laws (Amendment) Act

Later, the NA passed the Tax Laws (Amendment) Act, 2024 seeking to amend the Sales Tax Act, 1990 aimed at expediting the process of the recovery of over Rs2 trillion held up in litigation before the Appellate Tribunal Inland Revenue (ATIR).

The bill was presented for the passage by the law minister after approval of a motion seeking to suspend the rules under which the bills are referred to the standing committees.

PTI’s Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and Opposition Leader Omar Ayub Khan demanded that the passage of the law should be deferred till formation of the standing committees. But the minister said they required to pass the bill before the commencement of the next financial year on July 1.

Immediately after passage of the bill, the speaker then read out the president’s prorogation order.

SOURCE: DAWN
 

PTI unveils ‘white paper’ on alleged electoral misconduct​


The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has made public a comprehensive 234-page white paper, revealing what it claims to be widespread rigging and irregularities during the 2024 general elections. The document asserts that the electoral process was marred by serious flaws and compromises.

Highlighted within the white paper are a myriad of concerns, including breaches of constitutional mandates for election procedures, allegations of bias in the caretaker government's extended tenure, and purported instances of election manipulation aimed at marginalising PTI from the electoral arena.

One of the core contentions is the alleged violation of the constitutionally prescribed 90-day timeframe for conducting general elections, with PTI suggesting an unlawful extension of the caretaker government's term. Additionally, PTI points to what it dubs the "London plan" and the purported false flag operation on May 9th, involving violent incidents and assassination attempts targeting PTI figures and supporters.

The white paper accuses authorities of manipulating electoral rolls, censoring media coverage, rejecting PTI candidates' nomination papers, and orchestrating internet shutdowns, all purportedly to sabotage PTI's electoral prospects.

Evidence presented in the white paper spans from the pre-poll phase to the final government gazette notification, including statements from key officials like the Commissioner of Rawalpindi and a letter from the Returning Officer (RO) for NA-8 detailing alleged misconduct by his staff.

Beyond the immediate implications for electoral integrity, PTI emphasises the broader erosion of public trust in Pakistan's democratic institutions. In response, PTI has proposed a series of measures to rectify the situation, including Supreme Court intervention to investigate alleged electoral fraud and the formation of an independent judicial commission with powers to subpoena witnesses and access international election observers' reports such as the EU Mission, PATTAN, PILDAT, FAFEN, Commonwealth Observers Group, and the US Institute of Peace.

PTI's demands extend to the immediate release of PTI leader Imran Khan and the dismissal of politically motivated cases against him and other party members. Moreover, the party advocates for comprehensive electoral reforms to prevent future manipulations and restore transparency to the electoral system.

The white paper also calls upon the international community to stand in solidarity with Pakistan's democratic aspirations, framing the issues raised as matters of constitutional rights, justice, and the foundational principles of democracy.

tribune.com.pk

PTI unveils ‘white paper’ on alleged electoral misconduct | The Express Tribune

234-page document asserts electoral process was marred by serious flaws and compromises
tribune.com.pk tribune.com.pk
 
PTI demands judicial inquiry on White Paper

PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan on Friday demanded that the Supreme Court should form a judicial commission on the party's white paper to find out who was behind its defeat in the elections.

Speaking to the media outside Adiala Jail, Gohar noted that the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had recorded the testimony of one of its witnesses in the Al-Qadir Trust case, while 10 others had been dropped from the list.

“Even that witness accepted that the bank transactions that took place had nothing to do with [PTI founding chairman] Imran Khan and [his wife] Bushra Bibi,” he added.

“A trustee never becomes the owner. “When there is no owner of a property, how did corruption take place?”

The PTI chairman claimed that the Election Commission of Pakistan was responsible for stealing the party's mandate.

He further maintained that an organized conspiracy was hatched against the PTI on May 9 last year.

Gohar said NAB was trying to reopen another case against Imran and his wife, the Toshakhana (gift repository) case.

“These people are trying to create another bogus case so that they [Imran and his wife] can be kept in jail for more time.”

Gohar demanded that all the cases against the PTI founding chairman should be decided.

He continued that the courts should grant them justice in all the cases against the party.

The PTI chairman hoped that the party's reserved seats would be restored after the Supreme Court heard its case on the matter on May 8.

Gohar said Imran had expressed his satisfaction on the white paper and the party had won 180 seats in the National Assembly.

“We haven't received any message for carrying out negotiations.”

The PTI chairman further said Imran had refuted the claims of former defense secretary Lt-Gen (retd) Naeem Lodhi that efforts were under way to bridge the gap between the security establishment and the party.

Speaking on the occasion, PTI leader Ali Muhammad Khan said there was a difference between deal and negotiations.
He continued that the PTI founding chairman and other party prisoners should be released first.

“For negotiations, whether they are held with political or other forces, hatred must be removed from the hearts but we will not reach a deal with anyone.”

The PTI leader said they held a meeting with Imran today after a long wait.

He complained that despite the court's orders, they were made to wait for five hours.

The PTI leader paid his tribute to the lawyers who were representing the party's founding chairman in the cases against him.

“Those who are standing with the PTI founding chairman are constantly facing problems.”

SOURCE: EXPRESS TRIBUNE
 
After the incident yesterday between Hanif and Kakar In a Islamabad, the tensions between the mafia have come into the open. Apparently the investigation( its more of negotiation tactic by the Nooras to get more power in the Form 47 govt) has ruffled Kakars feathers because he and his guys made billions. He then told Hanif to shut up or he will tell the public about the form 47. Now if we remember Kakar was the caretaker PM and his only job was to hold free and fair elections and here the clown is admitting the form 47 theft of the mandate of the people.
 
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PPP forms fact-finding committee on Bilawal’s defeat in NA-127 Lahore

As per details, PPP leader Hasan Murtaza said that the three-member committee comprises Asif Khan, Imtiaz Safdar Warraich, and Rana Iqram Rabani.

He said that the committee members will determine the investigation procedure on their own and will submit a report to PPP Central Punjab President Raja Pervaiz Ashraf by June 15.

It is worth mentioning here that Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz’s (PML-N) Ata Tarar clinched victory against Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari NA-127 Lahore.

As per details, PML-N’s Ata Tarar bagged 98,210 votes followed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf-backed Malik Zaheer Abbas Khokhar with 82,230 votes and Bilawal on third place with 15,005 votes.

Following the defeat of party chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in the NA 127 election to PMLN candidate Atta Tarrar the President of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) in Lahore Aslam Gill, also resigned

The Central Executive Committee (CEC) of the PPP requested Gill’s resignation and a thorough investigation into the party’s loss.

arynews.tv

PPP forms fact-finding committee on Bilawal's defeat in NA-127 Lahore

LAHORE: Pakistan People's Party (PPP) on Friday formed a three-member fact-finding committee to investigate the defeat of Bilawal Bhutto in the NA-127
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
ECP employees to get three salaries as bonus

According to letters dispatched to the provincial election commissioners, the ECP has informed that employees and officers will get three basic salaries as bonus.

Those who are facing departmental inquiries and moved to services tribunals or judiciary will not be eligible for the bonus, the ECP letter stated.

Sources have claimed that the ECP has already given two salary bonuses to its employees in March after conducting the general elections in February.

As per rules of the finance ministry, no institution is allowed to give five bonuses to its staff in a single fiscal year.

Following the general elections on February 8, CEC Sikandar Sultan Raja lauded the services of the body’s staff, law enforcement agencies and the local administration on the peaceful conduct of the polls that ensured smooth transfer of powers from the caretakers to the elected government.

However, allegations of rigging were also raised on the process.

In a shocking ‘revelation’, Rawalpindi Commissioner Liaquat Ali Chatha – who stepped down from his post – confessed to be involved in rigging the Pakistan general elections 2024.

Taking responsibility for what he termed a “heinous crime,” Chatha implicated not only himself but also accused the Election Commission of Pakistan and Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa of involvement in the ‘rigging’ — a claim denied by the ECP and the CJP.

arynews.tv

ECP employees to get three salaries as bonus

ECP decided to give three salaries as bonus to its officers and employees, ARY News reported on Friday, quoting an official document.
arynews.tv
 
What have they done? The country is in the midst of an economic crisis, they failed to hold free and fair elections and to top it off, they're receiving a bonus?
 
RO report sought on rigging charges in PP-32

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) sought a report from the Returning Officer of PP-32 Gujrat on a plea filed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi, ARY News reported

Former Chief Minister Punjab Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi approached the ECP against what he termed rigging in the by-election on PP-32 held on April 21.

In the plea, Pervaiz Elahi maintained that the election was ‘manipulated’ throughout the constituency. He told the ECP that, at eighteen polling places, the percentage of female voters was less than 10 percent and at some polling places, the figure was as high as 91 percent

Pervaiz Elahi’s counsel informed the ECP that 832 votes were cast by individuals who were either deceased or out of the country.

While fixing the next hearing for May 29, the ECP also issued notices to Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi and Musa Elahi, the successful candidate.

It is pertinent to mention here that in the by-election held on April 21, Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid’s (PML-Q) Musa Elahi was declared winner with Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi with 71,357 votes. PTI’s Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi, backed by Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) could get 37,106 votes

Earlier on May 2, the Election Tribunal at the Islamabad High Court (IHC) directed the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to submit original Forms 45 and 46 of all three National Assembly constituencies of the capital city

The tribunal comprising Justice Tariq Mahmood Jahangiri of the IHC, heard petitions filed by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) backed independent candidates including Aamir Mughal from NA-46, Shoaib Shaheen from NA-47, and Ali Bukhari from NA-48.

The candidates who suffered defeats in the February 8 General Elections took their respective cases to the Election Tribunal in the Islamabad High Court after their pleas were rejected by the ECP.

They maintained that the results of the February 8 elections were tampered with and manipulated.


ARY News
 

Petition filed in LHC against election ordinance​


A writ petition has been filed in the Lahore High Court challenging a specific clause in the recent Election (Amendment) Ordinance 2024, signed by Acting President Yousaf Raza Gillani. The petition contends that the ordinance violates the doctrine of judicial independence as outlined in Articles 2-A and 175 of the Constitution.

Mashkoor Hussain, the petitioner, submitted the plea through his advocate Nadeem Sarwar, requesting the court to suspend the operation of the ordinance until the final resolution of the petition.

"The acting President signed the Election (Amendment) Ordinance 2024 on the advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, following approval by the federal cabinet," Hussain stated in his petition.

The disputed clause in the ordinance stipulates:

"For the trial of election petitions under this Act, the Commission shall appoint as many Election Tribunals as may be necessary for swift disposal of election petitions. An Election Tribunal shall comprise— (a) in the case of an election to an Assembly or the Senate, a person who is or has been a Judge of a High Court; and (b) in the case of an election to a local government, a District and Sessions Judge or a person who is or has been an Additional District and Sessions Judge. In the case of the appointment of a sitting judge as an Election Tribunal, the commission shall consult with the Chief Justice of the High Court concerned."

Hussain argued that the ordinance is unconstitutional and a blatant violation of the principles established by the Supreme Court of Pakistan. "The right to access justice through an independent judiciary is a fundamental right. Without an independent judiciary, the fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution are meaningless," he asserted.

He further contended, "The legislature is competent to legislate, but such legislation would not be sustainable if it is contrary to the principle of judicial independence as mentioned in Article 2-A of the Constitution. The independence of the judiciary is a salient feature of our Constitution."

The petition highlights that the preamble to the Constitution, along with the Objectives Resolution now part of the Constitution via Article 2-A, mandates the full security of judicial independence. The superior courts have elaborated on the terms 'fully' and 'secured' to reinforce the concept of judicial independence.

"Our country's federal system of government is based on a trichotomy of power. Each state organ must function within constitutional bounds. Although the judiciary is often seen as the weakest limb due to its lack of resources or power compared to the legislature or the executive, it plays a crucial role in ensuring constitutional compliance," Hussain's petition stated.

The petition emphasises that Election Tribunals, under Article 175(3) of the Constitution, should be managed and regulated by laws relating to the courts in Pakistan. "The question arises whether an Election Tribunal enjoys independence in appointing its members," Hussain said, adding that Tribunals should not be under executive control.

"The ordinance stipulates that the commission will consult with the Chief Justice of the concerned high court only for the appointment of a sitting judge, which breaches the doctrine of judicial independence from the executive. This is ultra vires of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan 1973," Hussain concluded.

tribune.com.pk

Petition filed in LHC against election ordinance | The Express Tribune

Ordinance's specific clause over consultation challenged
tribune.com.pk tribune.com.pk
 
The Senate passed the Election Act Amendment Bill 2024 by a majority vote on Thursday, despite intense protests and criticism from the opposition

Federal Minister for Law Azam Nazeer Tarar presented the Election Act 2017 Amendment Bill 2024 in the Senate after its approval by the National Assembly. Opposition leader and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) senators opposed the bill.

Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani warned the opposition to maintain decorum, stating, "Do not turn the Senate into the National Assembly. I will take action if this behaviour continues."

The amendment allows the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to appoint retired high court judges as tribunal members by amending Section 140 of the Election Act. PTI and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) members protested, tearing up copies of the bill and staging a walkout. However, Senator Anwarul Haq Kakar did not join the walkout, and the opposition returned shortly after.

Leader of the Opposition Shibli Faraz criticised the amendment, arguing that it was brought in to suit the ruling party. He stated that after ‘regime change’, PTI faced severe repression, including the confiscation of their election symbol and nomination papers.

Faraz accused the government of trying to manipulate the election tribunals. "The current government does not want the election tribunals to operate independently," he said, adding that a significant portion of the Senate was incomplete due to the absence of representatives from one province.

Law Minister Tarar countered Faraz’s accusations, reminding him that PTI had passed 53 laws in an hour during their tenure. He emphasised that the amendment aimed to expedite the work of election tribunals.

PTI Senator Ali Zafar called the bill "malicious," claiming it would "murder democracy." He accused the Election Commission and powerful circles of seeking to maintain control by appointing retired judges of their choice. "This bill is an attempt to keep unelected individuals in power," he said.

Zafar further revealed a supposed conspiracy, stating that the Chief Justice of Lahore High Court had sent names of judges for tribunal appointments, but the Election Commission selected only four. He argued that the amendment was an attempt to circumvent judicial consultation and allow the Election Commission to appoint retired judges at will.

Despite the opposition’s protests, the bill was passed with a majority vote.

tribune.com.pk

Senate passes Election Act Amendment Bill amidst opposition protest | The Express Tribune

This bill is an attempt to keep unelected individuals in power, says PTI’s Ali Zafar
tribune.com.pk tribune.com.pk
 
President Zardari approves Elections Amendment Bill

President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday approved ‘The Elections (Amendment) Bill, 2024 passed by the parliament, ARY News reported.

The Election Amendment Bill 2024 aims to amend Section 140 of the Election Act 2017. According to the bill, the election tribunal will consist of a serving judge, to be appointed in consultation with the Chief Justice of the respective high court.

According to the details, President Zardari gave assent to the bill passed by the National Assembly on June 28 and by the Senate of Pakistan on July 4.

After the president’s approval, the bill has now become an Act, paving the way for its implementation. President Zardari has given the assent under Article 75 of the Constitution.

The National Assembly on June 28 passed an amendment to the Elections Act, 2017 ‘The Elections (Amendment) Bill, 2024

The bill was moved by Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Azam Nazeer Tarar.

Briefing the lawmakers, he said the amendment was aimed at expediting the settlement of petitions pertaining to elections of the National Assembly, the Senate, provincial assemblies, and local governments.

He explained that due to the workload on serving judges, the proposed amendment seeks to restore the original provision of Section 140, making retired high court judges eligible for appointment as members of election tribunals.

In a heated session at the National Assembly, the Election Act Amendment Bill 2024 has been approved despite staunch opposition.


ARY News
 
ANP wins by-election in PK-22

The Awami National Party (ANP) candidate, Nisar Baz, has won the by-election for the PK-22 constituency in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly.

According to unofficial and unverified results, Baz secured 11,926 votes, defeating his closest rival, independent candidate Najibullah Khan, who received 10,622 votes.

The by-election was held in Bajaur district, with 11 candidates vying for the seat. The unofficial results from 91 polling stations show that the ANP candidate emerged victorious.

Jamiat-e-Islami candidate Abid Khan secured third place with 10,593 votes, while the ruling party in the province, the Sunni Ittehad Council, received the lowest number of votes, with their candidate garnering only 7,146 votes.


AAJ News
 
Technocrats will lead Pakistan if government changes: Fitch

The global ratings agency Fitch has forecasted that technocrats would come to power in Pakistan if the incumbent government changes as “there would not be new elections” in the South Asian country.

In its country risk report on Pakistan, the agency said the government was expected to remain in power for the next 18 months.

This comes after a flurry of political and legal developments in the country. Imran Khan and his party got major relief from the Supreme Court in the recent past when an Islamabad judge overturned his illegal marriage conviction while the top court awarded the former ruling party more parliamentary seats.

Both cases were considered a major blow to the coalition government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as many believed the decision would end the treasury benches majority in the National Assembly.

The PML-N government has decided to ban Imran Khan’s party but clarified that a final decision would be taken after consulting coalition partners. The party was also considering treason case against Khan, former president Arif Alvi, and former National Assembly deputy speaker Qasim Suri.

Amidst this, Fitch said that the political situation in the country has the potential to “derail the economic recovery process.”

The February elections in Pakistan saw significant victories for the independent candidates who supported PTI, it said and added that protests in different cities could potentially impact economic activities.

The report highlights that external payment pressures pose an economic risk for Pakistan while agricultural risks include floods and droughts. The government was expected to implement comprehensive economic reforms in collaboration with the International Monetary Fund.

The report states that the government was paving the way for an IMF programme to address Pakistan’s challenging economic decisions. By the end of the current fiscal year, the inflation rate in Pakistan might decline and the State Bank of Pakistan was expected to reduce interest rates.


AAJ News
 
All is well for as long as the corrupt thief Imran Khan is kept out of power. He had also become a national security threat remember. This government may not be perfect but at least Pakistan is moving forward in the right direction finally.
 
Bhaijaan said:
All is well for as long as the corrupt thief Imran Khan is kept out of power. He had also become a national security threat remember. This government may not be perfect but at least Pakistan is moving forward in the right direction finally.
Click to expand...
LOL. WHat right direction are you talking about brother???
I guess you are not in Pakistan atm so you don't have an idea of things happening here. It is getting worse and worse everyday.
 

Parliamentary committee approves Election Act Amendment bill​


The parliamentary committee has approved the Election Act Amendment Bill by a majority vote, despite opposition from PTI and abstention from JUI-F. PPP members were also not present at the meeting.

During the session chaired by Rana Iradat Sharif, the committee reviewed amendments to the Election Act 2017. Bilal Azhar Kayani provided a briefing on the bill.

The meeting saw heated exchanges between opposition member Ali Muhammad Khan and Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Azam Nazir Tarar.

Azam Nazir Tarar supported the bill, citing that the proposed amendments are in line with the constitution and law.

However, PTI members opposed the amendments. JUI-F member Shahida Akhtar Ali expressed concerns about the election commission's role and called for a detailed review of the amendments.

Ali Muhammad Khan criticized the election commission, accusing it of creating political crises and bias. The election commission's secretary stated that they could not comment on the retrospective effects of the bill, leaving it to the Ministry of Law and Parliament.

Ultimately, the committee approved the bill with six votes in favor and four against. Shahida Akhtar Ali abstained from voting, citing concerns about the bill's retrospective impact. No PPP members attended the meeting.

The Election Act Amendment Bill will be presented to the National Assembly for approval on Friday.

Furthermore, the National Assembly introduced the Second Amendment Bill to the Elections Act 2024, prohibits independent candidates from joining another political party after a specified period.

The session, chaired by Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, saw PML-N member Bilal Kayani present the bill. The proposed amendment aims to alter Sections 66 and 104 of the Elections Act 2017, restricting independent candidates from joining political parties after a constitutionally and legally defined period.

The bill suggests that independent candidates should not be allowed to join any political party within the stipulated timeframe. It also states that parties failing to submit a list of reserved seats within the specified period will not be eligible for those seats.

The bill further states that candidates who do not submit an affidavit of party affiliation to the returning officer will be considered independent.

tribune.com.pk

Parliamentary committee approves Election Act Amendment bill | The Express Tribune

Tarar supports bill citing proposed amendments in line with constitution, PTI opposes while JUI-F members abstain
tribune.com.pk tribune.com.pk
 
FearlessRoar said:

Parliamentary committee approves Election Act Amendment bill​


The parliamentary committee has approved the Election Act Amendment Bill by a majority vote, despite opposition from PTI and abstention from JUI-F. PPP members were also not present at the meeting.

During the session chaired by Rana Iradat Sharif, the committee reviewed amendments to the Election Act 2017. Bilal Azhar Kayani provided a briefing on the bill.

The meeting saw heated exchanges between opposition member Ali Muhammad Khan and Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Azam Nazir Tarar.

Azam Nazir Tarar supported the bill, citing that the proposed amendments are in line with the constitution and law.

However, PTI members opposed the amendments. JUI-F member Shahida Akhtar Ali expressed concerns about the election commission's role and called for a detailed review of the amendments.

Ali Muhammad Khan criticized the election commission, accusing it of creating political crises and bias. The election commission's secretary stated that they could not comment on the retrospective effects of the bill, leaving it to the Ministry of Law and Parliament.

Ultimately, the committee approved the bill with six votes in favor and four against. Shahida Akhtar Ali abstained from voting, citing concerns about the bill's retrospective impact. No PPP members attended the meeting.

The Election Act Amendment Bill will be presented to the National Assembly for approval on Friday.

Furthermore, the National Assembly introduced the Second Amendment Bill to the Elections Act 2024, prohibits independent candidates from joining another political party after a specified period.

The session, chaired by Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, saw PML-N member Bilal Kayani present the bill. The proposed amendment aims to alter Sections 66 and 104 of the Elections Act 2017, restricting independent candidates from joining political parties after a constitutionally and legally defined period.

The bill suggests that independent candidates should not be allowed to join any political party within the stipulated timeframe. It also states that parties failing to submit a list of reserved seats within the specified period will not be eligible for those seats.

The bill further states that candidates who do not submit an affidavit of party affiliation to the returning officer will be considered independent.

tribune.com.pk

Parliamentary committee approves Election Act Amendment bill | The Express Tribune

Tarar supports bill citing proposed amendments in line with constitution, PTI opposes while JUI-F members abstain
tribune.com.pk tribune.com.pk
Click to expand...
Pakistan needs to get its Constitution and laws and the mechanisms in order.
Every party that comes to power makes some drastic fundamental changes with little regard to the spirit of law.
Judiciary is just too weak , it seems.
 

SC overturns LHC's decision to reinstate vote recount in three NA constituencies.​


The Supreme Court (SC) of Pakistan has reinstated the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) decision to conduct a vote recount in three National Assembly (NA) constituencies.

A three-member bench, headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa and including Justices Naeem Akhtar Afghan and Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi, delivered the ruling on Monday.

The decision pertains to the recount of votes in various polling stations in NA-154, NA-81, and NA-79.

The case arose after Azhar Qayum Nahra of the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) challenged the Lahore High Court’s (LHC) decision to suspend his victory notification from NA-81.

The top court overturned the LHC's previous ruling and restored the electoral watchdogs's directive for a recount.

The court approved the appeals filed by PML-N candidates, with a 2-1 majority ruling. Justice Aqeel Abbasi dissented from the majority decision.

Following the SC's ruling, PML-N members Azhar Qayum Nahra, Abdul Rehman Kanju, and Zulfiqar Ahmed have been reinstated as National Assembly members.

The recount request for the constituencies of NA-154 (Lodhran), NA-81 (Gujranwala), and NA-79 (Gujranwala) had been filed with the top court leading to this decision.

tribune.com.pk

SC overturns LHC decision to reinstate vote recount in three NA constituencies. | The Express Tribune

The court upheld PML-N candidates' appeals with a 2-1 majority; Justice Aqeel Abbasi dissented from ruling
tribune.com.pk tribune.com.pk
 
PML-N bags NA-79 after vote recount

The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) secured another National Assembly seat following a vote recount in NA-79 Gujranwala, ARY News reported.

As per details, PML-N’s Zulfikar Bhindar requested that the ballots be recounted, and the Returning Officer (RO) granted his request.

Following the vote tally, Zulfikar Bhindar defeated an independent candidate backed by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Ehsan Ullah Virk by a margin of 3023 votes.

After the recounting, Zulfikar Bhindar secured 95,604 votes while PTI-backed candidate Ehsan Ullah Virk could get 92,581 votes.

It is pertinent to mention here that earlier Ehsan Ullah Virk was declared the winner with 104,023 votes while the PML-N candidate finished as runner-up with 99,635 votes.

Aggrieved with the results, Zulfikar Bhindar approached the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and requested for a vote recount.

It may be noted here that the PML-N managed to clinch NA-81 (Gujranwala) and NA-154 (Lodhran) after recounting of votes.


arynews.tv

PML-N bags NA-79 after vote recount

GUJRANWALA: The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) secured another National Assembly seat following a vote recount in NA-79 Gujranwala, ARY News
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
ECP declines to share general election expenses with parliament

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has refused to provide details of general election expenses to the parliament.

The ECP secretary wrote a letter to the secretary of the Senate Standing Committee on Parliamentary Affairs, stating that the ECP is an independent constitutional body that does not represent federal or provincial governments.

The letter mentioned that election expenses fall under the mandatory expenditures of the Federal Consolidated Fund.

The ECP has decided that it is not obligated to provide the requested information to the standing committee but is willing to assist with electoral law and constitutional provisions.


Dunya News
 
PTI posted on X:

If there was true democracy in Pakistan, we'd have genuine representative leadership. With authentic representation, leaders would legislate for the people's benefit. Consider this: if the Form 47 manipulation hadn't occurred, PTI's actual seat count would be vastly different.

8Rsp3J0.jpg
 
Rs 1.31bn grant approved for ECP to conduct LG by-elections

The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the federal cabinet on Tuesday approved a grant of over Rs. 1.3 billion for the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to conduct local government (LG) by-elections in different parts of the country, ARY News reported.

Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb chaired the ECC meeting that also considered several proposals from different sectors.

A press statement issued here read that the ECC considered and approved a summary of the ECP for a Rs. 1.317 billion grant in connection with LG bye-elections in Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan and Local Government elections in Islamabad and Punjab.

The ECP is all set to hold LG by-elections in different parts of the country on November 14.

The ECC also Okayed a summary submitted by the Ministry of Communications (Postal Services Wing) for a Technical Supplementary Grant (TSG) amounting to Rs. 16.995 billion for clearing of verified pending liabilities of companies/agency partners of Pakistan Post Office Department.

The ECC also took up five separate summaries submitted by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) as part of the FBR Transformation Plan earlier approved by the Prime Minister.

The ECC also decided that the Revenue Division and Finance Division would work out the mechanics, including allocation and release of budgets, under the five proposals, through joint consultation.

Earlier, the ECC approved Rs 1.8 billion as a technical supplementary grant to overhaul engines of two VVIP planes being used by President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif for state duties

“The ECC considered and approved a Technical Supplementary Grant to the tune of Rs. 1.8 billion to the Ministry of Defence for overhaul of engines of two VVIP aircraft being utilized for state duties with the President and the Prime Minister of Pakistan,” a press statement issued here read.



ARY News
 
Falling turnout from 2013 to 2024 hints at wider voter ‘apathy’

The voter turnout in general elections has decreased since 2013, despite more people being eligible to vote, highlighting widespread “apathy” among the population to exercise the democratic right, a new report has found.

The turnout in the 2013 general election was 55.5 per cent, which reduced to 52pc in 2018 and 48pc in 2024, according to the analysis by the Free and Fair Election Network (Fafen).

Till 2013, the voter turnout had increased in every election — from 41.7pc in 2002 to 44.4pc in 2008 to 55.5pc in 2013.

Fafen report says only 48pc cast votes in 2024, compared to 55.5pc in 2013; calls for more effort to engage people

The dip in voter turnout in the past 11 years was despite continuous growth in the numbers of polled votes.

In the 2002 general elections, 30 million votes were cast. The number grew by 18pc to 35.64m in 2008, by 32pc 46.91m in 2013, by 17pc to 54.73m in 2018 and by 12pc to 61.28m in 2024.

Overall, total votes polled rose significantly from 30,012,407 in GE-2002 to 61,282,920 in GE-2024. However, notwithstanding the increase in absolute numbers, voter turnout in the country has exhibited notable fluctuations across recent general elections.

The report also highlighted a significant discrepancy between urban and rural turnout.

In 2024, the voter turnout in urban areas was 43.8pc, significantly lower than 50.1pc in rural areas.

The 2018 election was the first time when the Election Commission of Pakistan mandated the reporting of gender-wise turnout data at polling stations. Therefore, the analysis on the basis of gender could only be done on the turnouts in the 2018 and 2024 elections.

Compared to 2018, both female and male voter turnout in 2024 declined across all regions except Islamabad.

Despite this drop, the proportion of female voters in the total votes polled increased, narrowing the gender gap in turnout.

The difference between male and female turnout rates decreased from 10 percentage points in 2018 to nine in 2024. Notably, women cast 24.4m of the 58.9m total votes in 2024, an increase of 2.7m compared to 2018.

This was double the 1.6m increase seen in male votes.

In terms of numbers, progress can be seen in the declining gender gap in votes polled — from 11.19m (20.4pc) in 2018 to 10.11m (16.5pc) in 2024.

According to the report, even though the gender gap in votes polled decreased, it didn’t offset the overall decline in voter turnout.

In 2018, the male voter turnout was 56.1pc, which dropped to 51.8pc in 2024, while female turnout was 46.9pc and 42.7pc, respectively.

The number of constituencies where female turnout remained less than men increased from 249 in 2018 to 250 in 2024.

The data showed that efforts for the registration of female voters were yielding results, but “more needs to be done” to address the gender gap in polling and ensure women’s full participation in the democratic process.

A comparison between 2018 and 2024 general elections reveals a stark shift in voter turnout patterns.

The number of polling stations with very low turnout — 10pc or less — increased from 352 to 915, indicating a growing number of areas with extreme voter disengagement.

The number of constituencies with turnout rates below 30pc increased from three in 2018 to eight in 2024.

On the other hand, the turnout in 11 constituencies surpassed 60pc in 2024, compared to 23 in 2018 and 90 in 2013, reflecting a “significant decline” in the number of high-turnout constituencies.

In 2018, there were 114 ‘zero-polling stations’ — where no votes were polled. The election of 2024 saw an alarming increase in the number of such polling stations.

In 2024, 464 polling stations recorded no female votes, while 62 had no male votes.

The “disproportionate increase” in polling stations with zero women turnout and the overall increase in no-turnout polling stations is “concerning and underscores the necessity of concentrated attention, “ the report stated.

The report stated that the trends highlight the “escalating” voter apathy and disengagement, as well as the need for targeted reforms to address declining participation and promote broader electoral inclusion, particularly among women and urban voters.

www.dawn.com

Falling turnout from 2013 to 2024 hints at wider voter ‘apathy’

Fafen report says only 48pc cast votes in 2024, compared to 55.5pc in 2013; calls for more effort to engage people.
www.dawn.com
 
General Elections 2024 recorded highest-ever turnout in Pakistan: FAFEN

The Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN) released a detailed analysis of voters’ participation in the General Election 2024 (GE-2024) as part of its celebration of National Voters Day.

The report, titled ‘GE-2024: Brief on Assessing Demographic and Gender Turnout Dynamics,’ provides an in-depth review of voter trends, including male and female participation, and draws comparisons with the previous general elections.

As many as 61,282,920 voters cast their ballots during GE-2024, which is the highest ever number of voters turning out to vote in any general election.

Notwithstanding the highest-ever number of voters, the turnout dropped to 48 percent, as compared to 52 percent in 2018 as there was an unprecedented increase of 22.5 million voters in electoral rolls between the two elections.


dunyanews.tv

General Elections 2024 recorded highest-ever turnout in Pakistan: FAFEN

As many as 61,282,920 voters cast their ballots during GE-2024
dunyanews.tv dunyanews.tv
 

'Return 2018 electoral mandate in exchange for 2024 elections', Dar offers PTI​


Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has proposed a solution to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, offering to return the 2018 electoral mandate in exchange for a period of governance until the 2024 elections.

Speaking in the Senate, Dar said, "If you return the 2018 mandate to us, we will take charge, govern, and then you can hold the 2024 elections as scheduled." He further suggested that if there were any issues regarding the February 8 elections, the courts would be available to address them.

Dar went on to highlight the cooperation between the government and PTI when it came to key appointments.

"We appointed the person nominated by you, the chief election commissioner, and we made the individual you wanted chairman of NADRA," he said, adding that the 2018 mandate had not been disputed at the time.

Addressing PTI’s actions around protests, he questioned why D-Chowk was specifically chosen for protests when other areas, such as Sangjani, were offered.

He pointed out that protests coincided with important events, including the visit of the Chinese Prime Minister and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) conference. He revealed that the Chinese ambassador had requested a postponement of protests, which PTI rejected.

Dar also commended JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman for displaying statesmanship during the SCO summit. He lamented the non-election of 11 senators in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, calling it unfortunate.

The remarks come amid ongoing political tensions and questions surrounding the legitimacy of the current government, with PTI pushing for early elections.

tribune.com.pk

'Return 2018 electoral mandate in exchange for 2024 elections', Dar offers PTI | The Express Tribune

DPM suggests that if there are any issues regarding February 8 elections, courts would be available to address them
tribune.com.pk tribune.com.pk
 
PTI remains most popular party among women voters in general elections 2024: FAFEN

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) emerged as the most popular political party among the women voters in the general elections of 2024, a report issued by the Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN) revealed.

According to the report, PML-N was the second most popular party among the women voters while PPP stood at number three.

A report on ‘Women Voting Choices’ was released by FAFEN on Sunday.

It added that the women voters in 18pc communities in the jurisdiction of male and female polling stations voted differently from their men counterparts in National Assembly constituencies during the general elections of 2024.

The report that compares the results of male and female polling stations in the same communities finds that in 82 percent of the communities, male and female voters’ choice of winner was aligned as they returned the same winner from their respective polling stations.

Since election results of combined polling stations do not provide a gender-wise breakdown of how male and female voters’ vote, FAFEN’s assessment could only compare the results of male and female polling stations.


dunyanews.tv

PTI remains most popular party among women voters in general elections 2024: FAFEN

A report on ‘Women Voting Choices’ was released by FAFEN on Sunday
dunyanews.tv dunyanews.tv
 
Pattan says its offices sealed for ‘exposing poll rigging’

Pattan Development Organisation has said that the house of its chief and its office in Multan have been sealed by authorities in retribution for its report exposing alleged rigging in last year’s general election.

The properties have been sealed on the orders of the Ministry of Interior, the organisation claimed.

The organisation said it does not have any office in Islamabad, as all staff work from home. The address of the house of Pattan’s national coordinator, Sarwar Bari, in the capita is used for correspondence and is mentioned on the organisation’s website.

A Pattan spokesperson said that around two dozen police officials, along with a magistrate, entered the house located in Sector F-10, Islamabad on Friday night and sealed it.

Retribution

Earlier this month, Pattan had published a report on the general elections and described them in a statement as “unprecedentedly rigged” with “vote-rigging, fraud and manipulation”.

The spokesperson claimed the action was retribution for the report.

In Multan, a notice has been placed at the gate of Pattan’s office. The order, issued by Registrar Joint Stock Companies, Multan, stated that the action was taken on the Ministry of Interior’s letter dated Feb 18.

The letter stated that Pattan was dissolved in Nov 2019, and the NGO “did not challenge” the order in any court.

The Pattan spokesperson has said that the NGO never received any notice from the registration authority about its dissolution.

He added that the Election Commission of Pakistan had issued accreditation to Pattan’s election observers, the spokesperson said, adding that all records can be presented to the media.

“Our bank accounts [remained] functional and we even paid taxes to FBR.”

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan criticised the authorities’ action against Pattan and said it was a violation of Article 14(1) of the Constitution.

DAWN NEWS
 

Commonwealth report questions 'fairness' of Pakistan's 2024 general elections​


Election observers from the Commonwealth have raised concerns over the integrity of Pakistan’s 2024 general elections in their final report, saying that voters' "fundamental political rights" were restricted.

The report, released on Tuesday, more than 18 months after the polls, also criticised the suspension of mobile phone services on election night. It said the shutdown "reduced the transparency of the process and impacted the efficiency of delivering results."

"Critically, the lack of digitally transmitted results forms expanded opportunities for the manipulation of Forms 45, 46 and 47," the Commonwealth Observer Group said in its 161-page report.

The observer group further said that "it surveyed a wide range of documentation that appeared to indicate that, in some cases, copies of Forms 45 held by party agents differed from those used in the tabulation of results that later appeared on the ECP website, with vote totals and turnout figures altered."

The report said: "We noted with concern a number of factors in the pre-election period that significantly impacted the level playing field, most crucially the non-allocation of the bat symbol to PTI and the registering of PTI candidates as independents."

Restrictions on rights and freedoms​

The report noted: “The COG received multiple reports of PTI members and supporters being arrested, detained, and of PTI offices and PTI members’ homes being closed or raided. These occurrences affected the ability of parties and candidates to exercise their fundamental constitutional rights of freedom of association and assembly.”

Alongside its criticisms, the group commended the Election Commission of Pakistan’s efforts to improve inclusivity. It highlighted "a reduction in the voter registration gender gap from 12% in 2013 to 7.7% in the 2024 election" and praised the expansion of the ECP’s Gender and Social Inclusion Wing.

It noted improvements in youth voter turnout and measures such as a gender hotline to report election-related harassment.

Call for democratic reform​

The report said: “The potential of Pakistan’s democracy is enormous. Pakistan has a vibrant and diverse media; women and the youth are more engaged than ever; and Pakistan’s CSOs play a critical role in the democratic life of the country, continually pushing for reform and improvement.”

However, it stressed that “the improvement of electoral processes will fundamentally depend on the broader political conditions in which elections are held”.

www.thenews.com.pk

Commonwealth report questions 'fairness' of Pakistan's 2024 general elections

Election observers from the Commonwealth have raised concerns over the integrity of Pakistan’s 2024 general elections in their final report, saying that voters' fundamental political rights...
www.thenews.com.pk www.thenews.com.pk
 
Ball Blazer said:

Commonwealth report questions 'fairness' of Pakistan's 2024 general elections​


Election observers from the Commonwealth have raised concerns over the integrity of Pakistan’s 2024 general elections in their final report, saying that voters' "fundamental political rights" were restricted.

The report, released on Tuesday, more than 18 months after the polls, also criticised the suspension of mobile phone services on election night. It said the shutdown "reduced the transparency of the process and impacted the efficiency of delivering results."

"Critically, the lack of digitally transmitted results forms expanded opportunities for the manipulation of Forms 45, 46 and 47," the Commonwealth Observer Group said in its 161-page report.

The observer group further said that "it surveyed a wide range of documentation that appeared to indicate that, in some cases, copies of Forms 45 held by party agents differed from those used in the tabulation of results that later appeared on the ECP website, with vote totals and turnout figures altered."

The report said: "We noted with concern a number of factors in the pre-election period that significantly impacted the level playing field, most crucially the non-allocation of the bat symbol to PTI and the registering of PTI candidates as independents."

Restrictions on rights and freedoms​

The report noted: “The COG received multiple reports of PTI members and supporters being arrested, detained, and of PTI offices and PTI members’ homes being closed or raided. These occurrences affected the ability of parties and candidates to exercise their fundamental constitutional rights of freedom of association and assembly.”

Alongside its criticisms, the group commended the Election Commission of Pakistan’s efforts to improve inclusivity. It highlighted "a reduction in the voter registration gender gap from 12% in 2013 to 7.7% in the 2024 election" and praised the expansion of the ECP’s Gender and Social Inclusion Wing.

It noted improvements in youth voter turnout and measures such as a gender hotline to report election-related harassment.

Call for democratic reform​

The report said: “The potential of Pakistan’s democracy is enormous. Pakistan has a vibrant and diverse media; women and the youth are more engaged than ever; and Pakistan’s CSOs play a critical role in the democratic life of the country, continually pushing for reform and improvement.”

However, it stressed that “the improvement of electoral processes will fundamentally depend on the broader political conditions in which elections are held”.

www.thenews.com.pk

Commonwealth report questions 'fairness' of Pakistan's 2024 general elections

Election observers from the Commonwealth have raised concerns over the integrity of Pakistan’s 2024 general elections in their final report, saying that voters' fundamental political rights...
www.thenews.com.pk www.thenews.com.pk
Click to expand...
@The Bald Eagle
@emranabbas
@HalBass9
@Major
@Mamoon
so the cat is out of the bag. The EU were also partners in the coup and so far have resisted all attempts to release their report.
 
Major said:
Bajwa gave u guys seats and help u guys win.
Click to expand...
Can you actually give cases lodged in the ECP by the aggrieved parties in 2018. The PTI lost upto 20 seats including the ones I mentioned. So obviously you will have the cases lodged by the PPP and Nooras. And at this point you always disappear.
 
Bewal Express said:
Can you actually give cases lodged in the ECP by the aggrieved parties in 2018. The PTI lost upto 20 seats including the ones I mentioned. So obviously you will have the cases lodged by the PPP and Nooras. And at this point you always disappear.
Click to expand...
bhai tunay mana kuch nahi, everyone from ur party has admited. You can keep living in denial
 
Major said:
bhai tunay mana kuch nahi, everyone from ur party has admited. You can keep living in denial
Click to expand...
The 2018 elections weren't perfect and it was the PTI that suffered and i gave you examples. It is on record that Bajwa wanted SS as PM and even told him to get his cabinet ready for approval from Bajwa. The public scuppered that plan and they went to plan B, which was a weak PTI govt and in 2022 we saw why.
The Nooras and PPP made a lot of noise but a hardly a creditable cass was brought. For you to argue that 2018 elections didn't reflect the will of the people is dishonest.
 
lol pti suffered in 2018 elections? The looney bin this guy lives in.....
 
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