Election Tribunal Orders Re-Polling in NA-251 Amid Allegations of Fraud

An election tribunal in Quetta has accepted a petition from Khushhal Khan Kakar, Chairman of the Pashtunkhwa National Awami Party (PkNAP), regarding the NA-251 constituency. The tribunal, led by Justice Muhammad Amir Nawaz Rana, declared the election notification for Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) candidate Syed Samiullah null and void. The tribunal has directed the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to conduct fresh polling at 22 disputed stations within the constituency, which includes Zhob, Qila Saifullah, and Sherani.

Dawn

Kakar's petition alleged significant electoral violations and the presence of bogus votes during the 2024 general elections. He requested that the tribunal recognize him as the successful candidate based on what he claimed was clear evidence of his victory. The tribunal's decision to order re-polling, rather than affirming Kakar's win, has sparked controversy and disappointment among his supporters.

Dawn

The PkNAP has expressed dissatisfaction with the tribunal's ruling, arguing that it disregarded substantial evidence presented during the proceedings. The party highlighted that the ECP had previously acknowledged Kakar's lead on its official website and through an inquiry commission. They noted that a recount ordered by the tribunal had confirmed Kakar's lead by over 4,000 votes, and that the returning officer had officially submitted this result.

Dawn

Kakar's party contends that the original margin of victory, which they claim exceeded 20,000 votes, was unlawfully altered following the elections held on February 8, 2024. The PkNAP criticized the tribunal's decision as contrary to electoral justice, asserting that the order for re-polling undermines the integrity of the electoral process.

Dawn

In response to the tribunal's ruling, the PkNAP issued a statement expressing their disappointment and frustration. They emphasized that despite presenting what they considered undeniable evidence of Kakar's victory, the tribunal opted for re-polling instead of upholding the original results. The party's statement underscored their belief that the decision failed to reflect the true outcome of the elections.

Dawn

Critics of the tribunal's decision argue that the order for re-polling may set a concerning precedent for future elections, potentially undermining public confidence in the electoral system. They contend that the tribunal's actions could be perceived as an attempt to appease opposing parties rather than ensuring a fair electoral process.

Dawn

The ECP is now tasked with organizing fresh polling at the 22 disputed stations in NA-251, following the tribunal's directive. The timeline for this re-polling has yet to be established, and the outcome will be closely monitored by both political parties and the public, as it may have significant implications for the legitimacy of the electoral process in the region.

Dawn