The ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) secured significant victories in the latest round of by-elections, clinching two National Assembly seats and ten provincial assembly seats, as per unofficial results released on Monday. These by-elections, held on Sunday, saw tight security measures and the suspension of cellular and internet services in specific districts of Punjab and Balochistan to ensure law and order.
By-Election Results
The by-elections encompassed 21 National and provincial assembly seats, including two National Assembly seats each in Punjab and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, one seat in Sindh, and twelve seats in the Punjab Assembly, among others. While major political parties, such as the PML-N, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-backed Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), participated, the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl chose to boycott the polls. Preliminary results indicated PML-N’s dominance with victories in 10 out of 16 provincial assembly seats, including nine in Punjab and one in Balochistan.
Incidents of Violence
Despite efforts to maintain peace, sporadic violence was reported. In one unfortunate incident, a supporter of PML-N lost his life following a clash with PTI voters in Punjab’s Narowal area. However, authorities effectively managed overall law and order throughout the electoral process.
Background
These by-elections follow the general elections held across Pakistan on February 8, which experienced cancellations in certain constituencies. Notably, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz vacated seats in NA-132 (Kasur) and NA-119 (Lahore), respectively. Other leaders also relinquished multiple seats, prompting the need for by-elections.
Security Measures
To ensure the integrity of the electoral process, the federal government took action. Upon the request of the Election Committee of Pakistan (ECP), authorities suspended cellular services in specific districts of Punjab and Balochistan. This measure aimed to prevent any potential disruptions and uphold the fairness of the elections. This measure aimed at safeguarding the electoral process against any potential threats. Additionally, elaborate security arrangements were made for the by-elections. This included the deployment of regular army troops. Their presence aimed to maintain peace and order throughout the electoral process.
Suspension of Communication Services
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) announced the temporary suspension of cellular services to uphold the security of the electoral process. The decision to suspend mobile internet services in Punjab’s 13 districts and tehsils underscores the authorities’ commitment to ensuring a smooth and secure electoral environment. It’s a measure aimed at maintaining order and security during the electoral process.
The outcome of these by-elections signifies the political landscape’s evolving dynamics in Pakistan, with PML-N emerging as a formidable force. Incidents of violence underscore the challenges in the electoral process. The authorities have made concerted efforts to maintain law and order. These efforts are commendable. As the country navigates through political transitions, the results of these by-elections will shape Pakistan’s political landscape. The future trajectory of the nation hinges on these outcomes.
