PTI-independents say ROs made MQM win

HYDERABAD:

Independent candidates fielded by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in Hyderabad, including Dr Mustansar Billah and Naeemuddin, have come forward asserting PTI’s sweeping victory not only in Hyderabad but across the nation.

Speaking at a joint press conference held at the Hyderabad Press Club, Dr. Mustansar Billah, PTI’s nominee from NA-219, expressed concern over the defeat of independent candidates aligned with PTI, alleging foul play orchestrated against them.

Dr Mustansar highlighted PTI’s purported nationwide dominance in the general elections, citing specific polling station data from NA-219, where PTI reportedly secured a significant number of votes. He criticized the traditional stronghold of MQM in Hyderabad, accusing them of manipulating the electoral process and undermining the democratic mandate.

Despite facing challenges such as the removal of PTI’s symbol, the “bat,” Dr. Mustansar emphasised the success of PTI candidates and implicated Returning Officers (ROs) and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) in alleged rigging incidents. He pointed to specific instances, like in PS62, where PTI candidates were purportedly leading by a substantial margin but were declared losers under dubious circumstances.

Similarly, Naeemuddin, PTI’s nominee from PS64, echoed Dr Mustansar’s concerns, citing irregularities observed after the polling period ended. He lamented discrepancies between Form 45 and Form 47, indicating possible tampering with the election results. Naeemuddin asserted that these malpractices not only undermine the electoral process but also cast doubt on the credibility of esteemed national institutions.

The allegations put forth by PTI nominees underscore the need for transparent and fair electoral practices, ensuring the integrity of democratic processes and upholding the will of the people.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 20^th 2024.