Durrani warns against 1977-style election manipulation

Former federal minister and senior politician Muhammad Ali Durrani has expressed concern about the current ground realities leading up to the general elections scheduled for February 8, stating that they evoke memories of the 1977 elections, which were marred by the worst rigging in the country's history.

In a statement on Sunday, Durrani asserted, "Revocation of electoral symbols, snatching of nomination papers, curtailing the right to campaign, and suppressing freedom of expression is not an election but a selection".

“This war against democracy will result in the defeat for everyone,” he warned.

Durrani highlighted that pre-poll rigging by the Punjab administration is reminiscent of the shameful manipulation during the 1977 elections, which were universally rejected by the nation.

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Durrani cautioned against expecting different results in the upcoming elections if the controversial tactics of 1977 are used. "If the tactics of 1977 are applied in 2024, the country, democracy, the people, and institutions will suffer the same dilemmas as in 1977 and harm the national interests."

The former federal minister said that the administration is under Nawaz Sharif's control, causing restlessness among the people -- to feel this public unease is the demand of patriotism, he maintained.

Talking about the appointment of the chief election commissioner from the civil service and his conduct, he said that the failure would become an example of the failure of the civil service, just like the infamous judges of the past could not rid themselves of the stigma.

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He added that Nawaz cannot gain legitimacy by “disrespecting” the vote and his party would be the biggest loser of using these tactics.

“Nawaz Sharif has already taken a U-turn from the slogan and narrative demanding sanctity of the vote,” he added.

Senator Durrani stated that Nawaz got three opportunities but every time he clashed with the institutions resulting in his ouster.

The senior politician further said that it is the first time that Nawaz has faced political and electoral defeat even before coming to power. "The formula of 'vote se jang, Nawaz Sharif ke sung' has failed."

Durrani added that democracy will derail if there is a “war with votes” and urged the judiciary to play a role in saving the country from similar consequences that the country faced in 1977. "Otherwise, another stain will further tarnish their reputation."