Blatant election rigging, clashes continue in Karachi

Voter says he was slapped on the face by a political worker - forced to vote for a political party.

Serious rigging is going on at most polling stations of NA 255 and PS 122 and 128 especially at Asif Government Boys School 36 B Zamanabad, Landhi 4 (NA 255, PS122).

 

PS 128, NA 255 - main Dawood Chowrangi

Some armed men (eyewitnesses say from ANP) tried to spread panic and take over the polling station early in the morning.

However, a rival party (allegedly SSP) supporters resisted strongly as the area is their strong hold.

Security arrangements were very poor as no ranger or army personnel could be seen patrolling the area despite a bomb blast that took place about 2 km from the station.

There were only a few policemen deputed at the gate.

Residents complained that security was poor despite the fact that the polling station was one of the most sensitive due to it's geographical location and diverse community.

However, the turnout was very high as a large number of voters including women -- from a right wing neighborhood dominated by a couple of religious parties -- showed up to cast their votes despite the bomb blast at a nearby location.

Some of the voters ET spoke to said they voted without fear and under their free will -- apparently no rigging.

At two polling stations of NA 255 and PS 128 located near Choti market between 89 bus stop and Landhi No 1 saw a very high turnout. Women, young, families were voting in large numbers. Most voters ET spoke to said voting was fair. However, one voter who wished not to be named said there is no private area to stamp your vote and nominated political agents present inside the booth could see who was stamping what.

Another voter, who also spoke on condition of anonymity said he was slapped on the face by a political worker who held his hand and made him stamp on a particular symbol by force.

People complained that when the army entered the station, rigging stopped. As soon as they left, it resumed.