ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has rejected the preliminary results of the elections to 24 constituencies of the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly, expressing serious reservations over the electoral process and demanding an investigation into alleged irregularities in some constituencies.
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad on Monday, PTI Chairman Barrister Gauhar Ali Khan said that his party faced various obstacles during the election campaign, due to which it was not possible to reach out to voters effectively. He said that the activities of party leaders and workers were restricted before the elections, which affected the election atmosphere.
Barrister Gauhar claimed that PTI-backed candidates were in a better position in various constituencies; however, a situation emerged during the declaration of results that is raising questions. He specifically referred to the Rehmanpur constituency of the Astore district and said that re-elections should be held there, as evidence of alleged fake votes has been presented before the relevant authorities.
He said that PTI does not accept the election results, vote counting and the overall election process. According to him, ensuring a true reflection of the public mandate is a basic requirement of a democratic system, and a transparent investigation is necessary in this regard.
The PTI chairman announced that the party will soon issue a white paper on the issue, which will include details of the alleged irregularities. He also said that a protest plan will be drawn up in Gilgit-Baltistan after consultation with political allies.
On the other hand, according to initial unofficial results, the Pakistan Peoples Party has emerged as the largest party in the region, while the Muslim League (N) has also won several seats. Independent candidates and other political parties also played a significant role in the election contest.
According to political observers, the objections raised after the elections can further strengthen the national debate on electoral transparency and results. Experts say that it is the responsibility of the electoral institutions to review all complaints within the legal and constitutional framework in order to maintain public trust.
Meanwhile, various political parties have started formulating their own political strategies after the election results, while consultations are also underway on the possibilities of government formation. According to observers, the situation of electoral disputes and political connections will become clearer in the coming days.
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