Following the recent general elections, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has leveled serious accusations of electoral misconduct. They claim that a considerable number of National Assembly seats won by the party were unfairly taken through rigging.
During a press conference in Islamabad, PTI Central Information Secretary Raoof Hasan labeled the February 8 elections as the "biggest voter fraud" in Pakistan's history, specifically targeting the PTI and its candidates.
Hasan mentioned that out of the 177 National Assembly seats they anticipated winning, only 92 were given to them. The remaining 85 seats, according to Hasan, were snatched through fraudulent means. He stressed that the party is exploring constitutional and legal options to address this issue.
Hasan disclosed that the PTI has examined data related to 46 seats and is currently compiling information for the remaining 39. He also pointed out discrepancies between forms 45 and 47, hinting at possible instances of rigging during the elections.
During the press conference, PTI leaders presented evidence, including videos and presentations, to support their claims of electoral irregularities. Seemabia Tahir showcased a video illustrating alleged rigging incidents, while Shandana Gulzar highlighted differences in seat allocation compared to the party's vote count.
Gulzar raised concerns about Karachi, where despite receiving 1.25 million votes, the PTI failed to secure a single seat. She also questioned seat allocations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad, Punjab, and Balochistan, alleging significant differences between vote shares and seat distributions.
Independent candidates, including Salman Akram Raja and Ayaz Amir, echoed these concerns, citing instances of irregularities and alleged misconduct at polling stations and returning officers' offices.
Rehana Dar, the mother of former PTI member Usman Dar, expressed dissatisfaction with the election process, alleging intimidation and harassment by opponents. Khurram Sher Zaman also criticized what he described as "daylight robbery" in Karachi, pointing out discrepancies in vote counts and seat allocations.
These allegations by the PTI have ignited widespread debate and concern among the public. Many are calling for an independent investigation to ensure the integrity of future elections. Upholding the principles of democracy requires thorough scrutiny of any allegations of misconduct to maintain trust and confidence in the electoral system
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