Protests erupted across Balochistan and Karachi on Sunday as many political parties rejected the recently announced election results, claiming rampant cheating.
Following closely fought elections, prominent parties such as the National Party, PPP, JUI-F, BAP, BNP-Mengal, PkMAP, and PkNAP have conducted sit-ins at district returning offices, seeking recounts and questioning the proclaimed results.
Discontent was rampant in Quetta, with protests engulfing main thoroughfares including as Sariab Road, Buleli Road, and Anscomb Road. Similar protests erupted in Chaman, Chagai, Dalbandin, Loralai, Qila Abdullah, Kharan, and Sibi, effectively closing down critical national roads in Naseerabad, Jafarabad, Sohbatpur, Kalat, and Nushki.
The protests crossed provincial lines, reaching Karachi, where Jamaat-e-Islami, JUI, and PTI scheduled rallies against alleged election tampering. JUI intends to hold protests in Sohrab Goth, Quaidabad, and Northern Bypass, while Jamaat-e-Islami will organize supporters in Stargate, Korangi, Shahrah Pakistan, UP Mor, Orangi, Hassan Square, Quaidabad, and Nazimabad. The PTI plans to hold a demonstration outside the Election Commission’s office.
Meanwhile, in Islamabad, the capital police have declared that Section 144 is in effect and that any illegal gathering of persons would be prosecuted. “Some individuals are instigating unlawful gatherings near the electoral commission’s headquarters and other government buildings. It should be reminded that encouragement to assemble is also a criminal,” it stated in a tweet on X.
The police stated in the post that everyone has the right to a peaceful demonstration within the law, and that they will take legal action against any illegal actions. “Following the law is everyone’s responsibility. Citizens are asked to avoid participating in illicit activities,” the police said.
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has safeguarded the integrity of the election process by strictly adhering to established norms. However, widespread unhappiness and growing protests point to a developing political storm that might destabilize the area.
Maria Ghanchi