New Rawalpindi commissioner denies predecessor’s allegations

Saif Anwar Jhappa, who has replaced Chattha, insists that Election 2024 was transparent

In a dramatic turn of events, newly-appointed Commissioner Rawalpindi, Saif Anwar Jhappa, vehemently denied all allegations leveled by his predecessor, Liaquat Ali Chattha.

Hours after Chattha's shocking confession of involvement in rigging the February 8 elections and his subsequent resignation, Jhappa held a press conference at the DC office on Saturday to address the situation.

Chattha's confession included claims that 13 candidates from Rawalpindi were forcibly declared winners, alleging manipulation of results through the chief election commissioner and chief justice. He asserted that independent candidates were made to lose by providing a lead of 70,000 votes to losing candidates with fake stamps.

"I accept all the responsibility. I should be hanged. I cannot participate in the crime that could destroy Pakistan," declared Chattha in his resignation statement.

Contrary to Chattha's claims, Commissioner Saif Anwar Jhappa, who has taken over the position, insisted that Election 2024 was transparent. He asserted that the commissioner's role was solely one of coordination.

Also read: Rawalpindi commissioner resigns from post after confessing to 'poll rigging'

At the press conference, Jhappa was accompanied by the District Returning Officers (DROs) of all four districts under Rawalpindi Division – Hasan Waqar Cheema (Rawalpindi), Qurtaul Ain (Chakwal), Rao Atif Raza (Attock), and Captain Sami (Jhelum).

DRO Rawalpindi Hasan Waqar Cheema emphasised that the elections were conducted transparently, denying all allegations and calling for an investigation into the claims made by the former commissioner.

DRO Chakwal Quratul Ain supported Cheema's stance, stating that elections in Chakwal were conducted under the Election Act, and all processes adhered to the oath. She demanded an independent investigation into the allegations.

Similarly, DROs Attock and Jhelum, Rao Atif Raza, and Captain Sami also denied any pressure during the February 8 polls, asserting that the elections in their respective districts were conducted transparently.

DRO Talagang Khawar Bashir stated that they conducted transparent elections in Talagang and called for an independent investigation into Chattha's allegations.