By Qamar Bashir
The nation nears the conclusion of the exhaustive election process, amid accusations of rigging and the misuse of state power in favor of PML(N), leading to widespread condemnation from the media and PTI, who have labeled the
election as stolen. The mandate appears highly fragmented across the country, surprising both observers and influential figures. Allegations abound regarding the manipulation of results by state entities to benefit PML(N) and hinder PTI from securing a clear majority, both nationally and in the crucial province of Punjab.
The election outcomes, though shocking and demoralizing, saw PML(N)
exhibiting resilience by claiming victory in Punjab and at the national level.
However, the humbling results prompted a shift in demeanor, with PML(N)
adopting a more conciliatory tone. Leader Mian Nawaz Sharif extended an olive
branch to all political parties, the judiciary, and the Armed Forces, emphasizing a
desire for collaboration to overcome the country's challenges. He pledged
PML(N)'s commitment to avoiding confrontation and instead advocated for unity
to elevate the nation to greater heights of prosperity.
He announced the formation of two-member teams, led by Shahbaz Sharif and
Ishaq Dar, tasked with initiating immediate dialogue with Asif Ali Zardari of PPP,
MQM, and JUI. The objective was to persuade these parties to form a coalition
government with PML(N) aimed at fostering prosperity and development in
Pakistan. However, PML(N) is cognizant of the potential hefty cost associated with
such a coalition. It may entail relinquishing the premiership to Bilawal Bhutto and
granting the presidency to Asif Ali Zardari, among other costly demands from
various parties. This could leave PML(N) in a precarious position, rendering it
ineffective for practical purposes.
Mr. Ishaq Dar sounded a warning to PTI, suggesting that while independents may
have secured significant victories, they cannot independently form a government
and will likely align with other parties to do so. He proposed Nawaz Sharif as
Prime Minister with himself as Finance Minister.
On the other hand, Syed Khurshid Shah of PPP struck a cautious tone regarding
Mian Nawaz Sharif's proposals. He stated that it is premature to discuss coalition
formation until all results are finalized. PPP will determine its future course of
action once the total results are announced and discussions with over 16
independents progress further.
At present, PTI is embroiled in a protracted legal struggle to reclaim what they
allege as a stolen mandate, restore their party status, and explore options to align
with smaller parties to secure seats reserved for women.
As it stands, PTI has emerged as the largest party at the federal level (95/265),
closely followed by PML(N) with 67 seats, PPP with 52, MQM with 8, IPP with 3,
JUI with 2, and BNP Mengal with 1.
PPP is poised to form the government in Sindh, while PTI is expected to do so in
KP. In Punjab, PML(N) holds the majority with 144 seats, closely trailed by PTI.
The battle for Lahore's throne is anticipated to be fiercely contested between the
two parties. In Balochistan, PPP has secured the most seats and is likely to pursue a
coalition government, a common occurrence in the province's political landscape.
Mr. Rauf Hassan of PTI asserted that the party is poised to form governments in
Punjab, KP, and at the federal level. Mufta Ismael remarked on the significant
voter turnout for PTI, surprising all political stakeholders. Salman Akram Raja, in
a Vlog, disclosed that despite leading with 80,000 votes according to Form 45, the
Returning Officer (RO) unlawfully denied him Form 47 and expelled him from his
room. He has filed an appeal with the Lahore High Court and urged PTI leaders
and workers to remain vigilant to safeguard their victory.
Mr. Jabran Nasir of PTI asserted that even the aggregate votes in Nawaz Sharif's
Form 47 did not reconcile, suggesting widespread rigging nationwide. He accused
the pervasive rigging, conducted with impunity, of fueling disillusionment, anger,
and frustration among the populace. An analyst alleged that the election outcomes
in over 60 constituencies were manipulated in favor of PML(N), with numerous
presiding officers coerced into altering results under threat of severe repercussions.
The international media's headlines resound with concerns over transparency,
rigging allegations, and perceived bias favoring PML(N). The New York Times
warns of a shadow cast by rigging accusations, while the BBC raises questions
about the election's fairness amidst irregularities. France's Le Monde, Hindustan
Times, and Turkey's Anadolu Agency echo similar apprehensions. Al Jazeera
reports on rigging claims and internet disruptions, with Reuters highlighting
Western observers' worries about irregularities. CNN International reports on
unexpected delays in vote counting. The Associated Press calls for transparency
from the international community, while TRT labels the 2024 elections as the least
fair and transparent in Pakistan's history.
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and Amnesty International
condemned the suspension of internet and cellular services, highlighting Pakistan's
temporary closure of border crossings with Iran and Afghanistan for security
reasons. Analysts criticized the election as the least credible since Pakistan's
independence, citing allegations of pre-poll rigging and a crackdown on Imran
Khan's PTI party. The banning of PTI's cricket bat symbol on ballots
disadvantaged illiterate voters, while TV stations were prohibited from airing
Khan's speeches. Political violence marred the lead-up to the vote, exemplified by
twin blasts targeting campaign offices in Balochistan, claimed by the Islamic State
Pakistan Province militant group.
In the aftermath of the 2024 elections, Pakistan finds itself at a critical juncture,
grappling with the fallout of allegations of widespread rigging, transparency
concerns, and the polarization of political forces. As the nation awaits the
finalization of results and potential coalition formations, the need for transparency,
accountability, and a commitment to democratic principles has never been more
pressing. The international community's scrutiny, coupled with domestic calls for
justice and electoral integrity, underscores the imperative for thorough
investigations and corrective measures. It is incumbent upon all stakeholders,
including political parties, electoral authorities, and civil society, to work towards
restoring faith in the democratic process, ensuring that the voices of the Pakistani
people are heard and respected. Only through genuine dialogue, accountability, and
a collective commitment to democratic values can Pakistan chart a course towards
a more stable, inclusive, and prosperous future.
