Gohar warns of IMF programme risk sans Form-45-verified poll results

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has intensified the party's stance on the release of election results under Form-45s and demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja, alleging systematic rigging in the February 8 elections.

Addressing the media after a meeting with PTI founder Imran Khan in Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail on Tuesday, Gohar emphasised the significance of transparent and fair elections, stating that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has failed to fulfill its responsibility.

Gohar stated, "We have always requested the ECP for a fair and transparent election, but unfortunately, our concerns have not been addressed. The release of election results under Form-45s is crucial to uphold the public mandate."

Highlighting the revelations made by former Rawalpindi commissioner Liaquat Ali Chattha regarding electoral fraud, Gohar expressed concern for Chattha's safety and called for full security for him and his family. He added, "Commissioner Rawalpindi has clearly stated what kind of fraud has taken place in elections. It is our duty to ensure his safety and protect those who expose the truth."

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Gohar asserted that the PTI had submitted a list of 50 MNAs to the Election Commission of Pakistan and mentioned a strategic alliance with the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC). He explained that the list had been submitted in the name of SIC, and PTI MNAs joining the council would receive reserved seats in parliament accordingly.

"We have decided to forge an alliance with Sunni Ittehad Council at the provincial and federal levels. Our MNAs who join SIC will get reserved seats in parliament, and we have already submitted the list to the election commission," Gohar elaborated.

Drawing attention to the potential consequences, Gohar warned that if election results are not released under Form-45s, it could impact Pakistan's prospects of International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme.

"We demand that the Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja resign immediately to ensure accountability and restore faith in the electoral process. The correct results must be released under the public mandate," Gohar concluded.