Election Day Overview: Voting for the National Assembly and provincial elections in Pakistan took place from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. The elections were reportedly the most expensive compared to the last four elections, with approximately Rs 1 thousand crores being spent.
Internet and Mobile Service Interruptions: During the voting period, mobile and internet services were mostly closed in the country, causing disruptions. The government claimed that services were gradually being restored, but some websites, including Jio News and the Express Tribune, were still inaccessible.
Initial Results and Trends: Although official results are expected to be declared the next day, trends began to emerge during the counting process. Trends for 138 out of 265 seats have been revealed so far, with Independents supporting Imran Khan’s party (PTI) leading in 82 seats, PML-N leading in 35 seats, and Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leading in 17 seats.
Political Statements and Reactions: Imran Khan’s party, PTI, claimed victory, stating that despite government tactics to discourage voting, people voted courageously. Maulana Saad Rizvi of Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) is leading from seat number 50 of the National Assembly. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari of the PPP is leading in all three seats he contested.
Incidents of Irregularities: There were reports of irregularities during the voting process, including allegations of ballot theft and vote manipulation. For instance, masked men reportedly stole hundreds of ballot papers from a polling station in Karachi, and there were complaints of vote-tampering in Balochistan.
Security Concerns: Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar expressed concerns about increasing terrorism and emphasized the importance of security arrangements during the elections. Internet service closures were cited as a security measure.
Appeals and Uncertainty: Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar mentioned that it was still challenging to determine voter turnout or predict results accurately. He appealed to the public to participate in the voting process despite the uncertainties.
