Fair polling

ECP must be praised for smoothly conducting re-polling at 43 polling stations of NA-250, Karachi.


Editorial May 20, 2013
The success of the ECP is especially commendable as it came at a time when political tensions in the city ran sky high. PHOTO: FILE

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), under much attack in recent days, deserves a word or two of praise for smoothly conducting a re-polling process at 43 polling stations of NA-250 in Karachi, from where there had been multiple reports of rigging and malpractice after May 11. The success of the ECP is especially commendable as it came at a time when political tensions in the city ran sky high, following the gunning down on the night of May 18 of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leader and founder member Zahra Shahid Hussain, 60, at the gate of her home in Defence.

The tragic murder was immediately followed by accusations, denials and counter-accusations. In this situation, and with some parties boycotting the NA-250 re-poll, we can only hope more trouble does not flare up. This is the last thing Karachi needs. While the killing of Zahra Shahid Hussain must indeed be investigated, we must also appeal to all parties to remain watchful of the interests of Karachi’s people and avoid making any comments that could inflame the situation. Leaders need to exercise caution, not jump to conclusions and recognise that violence must at all costs be avoided in a city that remains susceptible to it.

Given this background we can be especially grateful the re-polling exercise, under the supervision of Rangers and the Army, went ahead peacefully. The PTI’s, Dr Arif Alvi, has emerged the winner, with the same party’s candidates also winning the two corresponding provincial assembly seats. But regardless of winners and losers, what we need to celebrate is the fact that complaints were dealt with and re-balloting duly held. This is how things should be. While the turnout was lower than on May 11, an important process has been completed — even as the political temperature grows hotter in Karachi. We must hope leaders will succeed in lowering it so that the city can remain calm and move into the post-poll phase, ensuring animosity does not boil over.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 21st, 2013.

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