Live Updates: By-elections: Polling ends for 21 seats of National, provincial assemblies amid clashes among voters

In the by-elections for PP-149 constituency, the unofficial results from the polling stations have been revealed, showcasing a land sliding victory for Shoaib Siddiqui of the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP).

With an impressive turnout, Siddiqui secured a total of 39,137 votes, positioning himself as the frontrunner in the race. Following closely behind, Zeeshan Rasheed of the Sunni Ittehad Council emerged as the second-place contender, garnering 23,665 votes.

The unofficial results indicate a clear win for Siddiqui, with a substantial lead of 15,472 votes over his closest competitor.

Despite being unconfirmed, these outcomes highlight the prevailing sentiments of the electorate in PP-149 and shed light on the evolving political landscape in the region.

By-elections were held in five constituencies of the National Assembly and 16 seats of three provincial assemblies. At some polling stations, a large number of voters were reported, while others painted a deserted look even a couple of hours into the polling process. 

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) top brass has voiced its contentment with the outcome of Sunday's by-elections.

Prominent PML-N leader Rana Sanaullah expressed his party's satisfaction with the voter turnout during the by-elections, highlighting a noticeable absence of PTI supporters at the polling stations.

Sanaullah underscored that while the PML-N has consistently accepted electoral results, it has also diligently raised objections through proper channels. In contrast, he criticised PTI's approach, accusing its founder, Imran Khan, of attempting to undermine the electoral process.

The seasoned politician emphasised that despite the traditionally low voter turnout in by-polls, the PML-N was gratified by the level of participation and the ongoing issuance of Form 45 from all polling stations.

Addressing potential concerns, Sanaullah asserted that any irregularities observed during the polling would be promptly addressed through formal complaints. Furthermore, he extended an olive branch to PTI, urging the party to collaborate with PML-N in identifying and rectifying flaws within the electoral system.

Reflecting on the broader political landscape, Sanaullah expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with other parties, including the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), to resolve pertinent issues.

The PML-N's stance on the by-elections serves as a significant marker in Pakistan's political discourse, signalling both their commitment to democratic processes and their readiness to engage in constructive dialogue for the betterment of the nation.

Ata Tarar slams PTI's false narratives

Meanwhile, information Minister Attaullah Tarar celebrated what he deemed as a clear demonstration of the public's trust in the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).

The minister highlighted the by-election results as a testament to the nation's confidence in the PML-N's leadership, asserting that the measures undertaken by the government are a direct reflection of the people's trust.

In a pointed critique, the Information Minister remarked on the conspicuous absence of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) voters during the by-elections, insinuating a lack of support for the ruling party's agenda.

Moreover, the minister lambasted what he described as false statements emanating from prison, suggesting a deliberate attempt to mislead the public. He emphasised that the populace had unequivocally rejected PTI's assertions, condemning efforts to sow discord and tarnish the country's international reputation.

Addressing concerns of political conspiracies, the minister decried attempts to malign landlords and undermine the nation's stability from behind bars. He cautioned against narratives detrimental to Pakistan's interests and underscored the public's rejection of divisive politics rooted in lies and hatred.

In a nod to PML-N's performance, the minister praised Maryam Nawaz for her exemplary efforts in Punjab, highlighting the party's dominance in the by-elections.

Looking ahead, the Information Minister expressed optimism about the country's prospects, assuring the public that the government is committed to fulfilling their trust and restoring Pakistan's standing on the global stage.

In a major upset, former Punjab chief minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf-backed (PTI) Sunni Ittehad Council candidate Parvez Elahi, contesting from PP-32, faced defeat from Gujarat as Musa Elahi from the Pakistan Muslim League (PML) secured victory.

Musa Elahi emerged victorious with an impressive count of 63,536 votes, as per unofficial results.

In contrast, Chaudhry Parvez Elahi could only manage to secure 18,237 votes, according to the unofficial tally.

This outcome marks a significant shift in the political landscape of Gujarat, signaling a change in representation for the constituency.

Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) and allied party Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) won a majority of the seats in the by-elections held in 21 constituencies, while PTI-SIC was not able to secure a single seat from Punjab.

As per the Form-47 issued by the ECP, out of the 21 seats, the PML-N won 12 seats, Istehkam-e-Pakistan Pakistan (IPP), Pakistan People's Party (PPP) and the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) candidates one seat each, while one seat was clinched by an independent candidate as well. 

According to the schedule released by the Election Commission of Pakistan, by-elections were held in six National Assembly constituencies, 12 Punjab, and two each in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Polling was held in NA-08 Bajaur, NA-44 Dera Ismael Khan-I, NA-119 Lahore-III, NA-132 Kasur-II, NA-196 Kamber Shahdadkot-I, and NA-207 Shaheed Benazirabad-I constituencies of the National Assembly.

Read more: By-elections: Polling ends for 21 seats of National, provincial assemblies amid clashes among voters

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly seats were PK-22 Bajaur-IV and PK-91 Kohat-II, while the Balochistan Assembly constituencies were PB-20 Khuzdar-III and PB-22 Lasbela. 

The elections were held in various Punjab Assembly constituencies, including PP-22 Chakwal-cum-Talagang, PP-32 Gujrat VI, PP-36 Wazirabad-II, PP-54 Narowal-I, PP-93 Bhakkar-V, PP-139 Sheikhpura-IV, PP-147 Lahore-III, PP-149 Lahore-V, PP-158 Lahore XIV, PP-164 Lahore-XX, PP-266 Rahim Yar Khan-XII, and PP-290 Dera Ghazi Khan-V.

Another video purportedly showing alleged rigging has surfaced in Wazirabad as polling ended in the PP-36 constituency. The video allegedly depicts irregularities in the polling process.

Police have detained the presiding officer implicated in the video for further investigation. The footage raises questions about how the ballot papers were revealed before polling ended. 

وزیر آباد PP 36 میں بھی دھاندلہ عروج پر

پیر کوٹ پولنگ سٹیشن پر پریذیڈنٹ آفسیر کی جیب سے بھاری تعداد میں سٹیمپ شدہ بیلٹ پیپرز برآمد ہوئے ہیں@PTIofficial pic.twitter.com/YbLJcNuufR

— Ahmad Hassan Bobak (@ahmad_bobak) April 21, 2024

The Sunni Ittehad Council has voiced concerns over the incident, questioning how the ballot papers were exposed before polling ended. Additionally, the party has alleged that votes were recovered from the possession of the presiding officer. 

The police have said that an inquiry into the matter has been initiated, with active investigation into the allegations of electoral misconduct. 

Meanwhile, the election commission took notice of the incident in Narowal's Zafarwal area. In a statement, it said that on the instructions of the chief election commissioner, a formal investigation will be conducted into the incident outside Narowal's Zafarwal polling station.

It said the Gujranwala regional election commissioner has been appointed as the inquiry officer for the investigation. The inquiry officer will conduct an inquiry on the spot and submit a detailed report, it added. 

The by-elections in PB-50 constituency of Qila Abdullah of Balochistan have been marred by violence and disruptions, with armed men storming a polling station in the Majak area and firing indiscriminately, leading to the suspension of polling activities.

Reports from the area indicate that armed individuals entered a polling station in the Majak area carrying modern weapons and opening fire inside, causing chaos and panic among voters and election officials.

The incident forced authorities to halt the polling process to ensure the safety of all individuals present at the site.

Separately, Pashtunkhwa Mili Awami Party's Mirwais Achakzai has alleged that the staff of five polling stations was abducted last night, expressing fears that similar incidents may have occurred at other polling stations also. He further claimed that the accused might have taken away crucial election materials, including ballot papers, also.

Efforts to address these serious issues are underway, with Achakzai calling for the recovery of the abducted election staff and provision of adequate protection to them. The chief election commissioner and relevant authorities have been apprised of the situation, he said further. 

The re-polling was ordered in this constituency following concerns over irregularities in the previous general election of February 8. The re-polling pits Mirwais Khan of the Pashtunkhwa Mili Awami Party against ANP's Zamarak Khan Achakzai.

According to the district returning officer (DRO), a total of 125 polling stations have been established, with 74 of them identified as highly sensitive. 

Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Ahmad Khan expressed optimism on Sunday that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) will clinch a "big" victory over NA-132 Kasur in the by-elections.

Expressing his thoughts after exercising his right to vote in NA-132, Khan said: "The PML-N will emerge victorious from this constituency comprehensively."

This seat was vacated by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who won all the seats he contested in the general elections.

PML-N leader Malik Rasheed was contesting against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-backed Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) candidate Sardar Muhammad Hussain Dogar. 

Meanwhile, PML-N leader Rashid Minhas today expressed optimism about his victory from PP-164 in the by-elections.

Polling is currently underway for the by-elections in various constituencies of the country, while in Lahore's PP-164, the PML-N's Rashid Minhas and Sunni Ittehad Council's Yousuf Mayo are locked in a spirited contest.

The atmosphere at the polling stations in the area is charged with excitement as supporters of both candidates express confidence in their respective victories.

In a display of sportsmanship, both contestants, Minhas and Mayo, greeted and embraced each other and claimed victory for their parties.

Minhas lauded the excitement and fervour of the voters and hoped the PML-N would win. Supporters of both parties also engaged in a sloganeering match in front of each other. 

The enthusiasm of the voters in the constituency is palpable, with women voters also turning out in significant numbers despite the scorching heat. Many women emphasized the importance of casting their votes for the development and prosperity of the country. 

Over in PP-147 of Lahore, the elderly voters, too, are actively participating in the by-elections, underscoring the significance of exercising their democratic right. However, an elderly woman raised a concern regarding her vote being shifted. 

"It is important to cast the vote for the sake of the country," an elderly voter said. 

Another remarked that inflation had caused a lot of worries among voters, and hoped the prime minister would provide relief.

This sentiment underscores the broader concerns regarding economic stability and livelihoods, which remain key considerations for voters in this election.

As the polling process continues, all eyes are on the final results, which will not only determine the fate of the candidates but also reflect the aspirations and concerns of the electorate.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) senior leader Salman Akram Raja said on Sunday that his party will continue to struggle for democracy.

Speaking to media in NA-119 Lahore, Raja said: "The purpose of shutting down the internet services is to halt the process of sending Form-45 to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP)."

"We will monitor the situation today in connection with the by-elections and apprise the masses of the situation," he said.

"The masses will take the final decision if they are deceived," Raja stated.
 

The process of re-polling is underway in the PB-50 constituency of Balochistan's Qila Abdullah, with voters set to cast their ballots till 5pm.

With strict security arrangements in place by police and Levies officials, authorities are aiming to ensure a peaceful electoral process despite the challenges posed by mobile and internet connectivity issues and a highly contested race between two prominent candidates.

The re-polling was ordered following concerns over irregularities in the previous general election of February 8. The re-polling pits Mirwais Khan of the Pashtunkhwa Mili Awami Party against ANP's Zamarak Khan Achakzai.

According to the district returning officer (DRO), a total of 125 polling stations have been established, with 74 of them identified as highly sensitive. 

On March 18, the Supreme Court had ordered a re-poll in the constituency. A three-judge bench had set aside the Election Commission of Pakistan’s order for re-polling at only six polling stations of the constituency and ordered a fresh election as per the law.

The ECP’s decision was challenged by Zamarak Khan, pleading that the turnout at many polling stations in the constituency remained low during the February 8 general elections. 

The voters were facing hardship due to the suspension of mobile service in PP-266 Rahim Yar Khan on Sunday.

According to the details, the polling process was slow, and the women turnout has remained lower so far.

Meanwhile, there was a clash outside the polling station of PP-266, involving workers of two political parties.

During the workers' brawl, the car's windows were shattered, prompting police intervention.

The polling was temporarily halted due to the altercation. The police took the brawlers into custody for questioning.

Earlier, it was reported that mobile and internet services in 13 districts and tehsils of Punjab, including Lahore, Gujrat, Kasur, and Sheikhupura, would be suspended on Sunday to ensure the maintenance of law and order during the by-elections.

The Punjab Home Department has forwarded a formal letter to the Ministry of Interior, urging the suspension of mobile phone and internet services on the day of the by-elections. 

The Lahore police has arrested former MPA of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Chaudhry Shabbir Gujjar, on grounds of suspected disturbance of peace and nomination in various cases.

A couple of days ago, Gujjar was seen campaigning for the PTI candidate in PP-164 constituency of Lahore where 20 candidates, including PML-N's Rashid Minhas and PTI's Muhammad Yousuf backed by Sunni Ittehad Council, are gearing up for a tight electoral battle. 

تمام تر رکاوٹوں کے باوجود چوہدری شبیر گجر صاحب جلسہ گاہ میں پہنچ گئے انشا اللہ پی پی 164 سے پاکستان تحریک انصاف بھاری اکثریت سے جیتے گی ✌🏻 pic.twitter.com/tsCzO5VWPx

— Ch Shabbir Gujjar - pp 162 (@ChShabbirguj) April 18, 2024

Gujjar's arrest comes amid reports of clashes in various cities of Punjab where one person has been reportedly killed, three injured and six arrested. 

A brawl broke out between workers of the PML-N and PTI workers in Zafarwal's constituency, PP-54, wherein a 60-year-old man was killed after a baton hit his head. 

Also Read: One killed, 3 injured in violent clashes at Lahore, Ferozewala, Zafarwal polling stations

In Lahore's NA-119 constituency, tensions flared between workers of the Sunni Ittehad Council and the PML-N at Polling Station No. 171 near the University of Engineering and Technology (UET). 

Meanwhile, in Ferozewala's PP-139 constituency, a confrontation between two groups outside the Government High School Nizampura turned violent, with gunfire being exchanged. Three people sustained injuries during the altercation. 

Polling for by-elections in 21 constituencies of the National and provincial assemblies across the country has commenced at the scheduled time of 8am and will culminate at 5pm. 

Also Read: By-elections: Polling kicks off for 21 seats of National, provincial assemblies

By-elections are being held in five constituencies of the National Assembly and 16 seats of three provincial assemblies. At some polling stations, a large number of presence of voters is being reported, while some paint a deserted look even a couple of hours into the polling process. 

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) candidate Rashid Minhas on Sunday expressed optimism about his victory from PP-164 in the by-elections.

According to details, Minhas was crossing swords with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-backed Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) candidate Yousaf Meo. Minhas acknowledged the enthusiasm of the voters.

Interestingly, both leaders had embraced others and claimed to emerge victorious from the constituency.

Meanwhile, the party workers [PML-N and PTI-backed SIC] had chanted the slogans against each other.

The Punjab Police has announced robust security measures to ensure a peaceful and transparent voting process across the province on Sunday, including Lahore.

Out of the total 2,599 polling stations in Punjab, authorities have identified 419 as highly sensitive and 1,081 as sensitive, warranting heightened security measures. In response, more than 35,000 officers and officials, as well as female police personnel, have been deployed to oversee election security.

Punjab Inspector General of Police Dr Usman Anwar has assured the public of the police force's readiness to uphold peace and safety during the electoral process. 

"The Punjab Police is ready for a peaceful, transparent and safe conduct of by-elections" he asserted, adding that security has been significantly increased across the province, including Lahore.

The IGP emphasized that the police force will provide full security coverage to voters, polling staff, and citizens. Additional personnel, including units such as the Dolphin Force and Quick Response Teams, have been strategically stationed at sensitive polling stations to preempt any untoward incidents. 

He also underscored the importance of adhering to the Election Commission of Pakistan's code of conduct. "We will ensure proper implementation of the ECP's code of conduct." 

He reminded the people that strict measures, including the enforcement of Section 144, were in place to deter any illegal activities such as the display of arms, aerial firing, fights, or sabotage of the electoral process.

With these comprehensive security arrangements in place, authorities are optimistic about conducting the by-elections in a peaceful, transparent, and safe manner, ensuring the integrity of the democratic process in Punjab.

The voters were looking to eat nihari before voting in the by-election from PP-147 on Sunday.

According to details, the people of the constituency were of the view that they will first eat breakfast and then exercise their right to vote.

Meanwhile, the people were making their way to the Nihari restaurant in Lohari Gate before engaging in the polling process.
 
In PP-147, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) candidate Malik Riaz was competing against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-backed Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) candidate Muhammad Khan Madni. 

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Waseem Qadir casted his vote in the by-elections on Sunday.

According to details, the MNA exercised his right to vote at the Chamra Mandi School polling station in PP-147.

PML-N candidate Malik Riaz and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-backed Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC)-candidate Muhammad Khan Madni were locking horns against each other.

Earlier, Qadir joined the PML-N after emerging victorious as an independent candidate from NA-121.

The development came after Qadir called on PML-N Chief Orgainser Maryam Nawaz – now Punjab CM – in February, following the general elections.

Qadir had clinched victory against PML-N stalwart Sheikh Rohail Asghar from NA-121.
 

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N)-backed Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) candidate Shoaib Siddiqui on Sunday asserted that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) was resorting to wicked tactics.

Speaking to media in Lahore, Siddiqui, a candidate from PP-149 asserted: "The PTI is foreseeing its defeat in the by-polls. That is why it [PTI] is embracing hooliganism."

Siddiqui said that he was having a "strong connection" with the people of his constituency.

"We will once again emerge victorious like before," Siddiqui said.

Siddiqui said: "The opposition has nothing to do with the exception of just causing an uproar of rigging."
 
 

Violence has marred the polling process in Lahore, Ferozewala and Zafarwal, as clashes erupted between rival political factions, resulting in the killing of one person and arrests and injuries to others.

A brawl broke out between workers of the PML-N and PTI workers in Zafarwal's constituency, PP-54, wherein a 60-year-old man was killed after a baton hit his head. As a result of the clashes, polling was briefly stopped at the Kot Naju polling station. 

A 60-year-old man, said to be a PML-N worker, injured during the dispute, died in the hospital during treatment. Rescue sources said Muhammad Yousaf was hit with a wooden stick on his head. 

Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari expressed condolences over the death of a PML-N worker. She remarked that the PTI thugs had shown their thuggery as usual, adding that the Punjab Police should immediately arrest the killers of party activist Muhammad Yousuf. 

On the other hand, Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal met with the family of the deceased PML-N worker and condoled over his death. "We will never tolerate the politics of bullying and violence," he declared, vowing that the culprits will be brought to justice soon. 

The election commission issued a statement on the incident, claiming the clash between workers of political parties took place 200 meters away from the Kot Naju polling station and the accused were arrested by the police. 

They said the polling process at Zafarwal's polling station No 33 Kot Naju was underway without interruption. "Workers of political parties should show patience and tolerance," said Punjab Election Commissioner Ijaz Anwar Chauhan.

Lahore

In Lahore's NA-119 constituency, tensions flared between workers of the Sunni Ittehad Council and the PML-N at Polling Station No. 171 near the University of Engineering and Technology (UET). The dispute reportedly centred around the set-up of a camp, escalating into a physical altercation. 

Police arrested PTI workers from NA 119 Punjab! No0ne will be able to say that this is free & fair election! pic.twitter.com/d3Z4CWx3Oc

— Qazi Asif (@QMAAsif) April 21, 2024

Police intervened and arrested four individuals in connection with the incident. A heavy contingent of police reached outside the polling station along with officials of Elite Force. "All workers should show patience for a peaceful election," SP Dr. Abdul Hanan said. 

Ferozewala

Meanwhile, in Ferozewala's PP-139 constituency, a confrontation between two groups outside the Government High School Nizampura turned violent, with gunfire being exchanged. Three people sustained injuries during the altercation.

Law enforcement authorities swiftly moved in, arresting two suspects and suspending the polling process at the affected polling station. However, later the polling process resumed after over three hours. 

Also Read: By-elections: Polling kicks off for 21 seats of National, provincial assemblies

Sadiqabad

Workers of two political parties engaged in a clash outside the Mohib Shah polling station in PP-266 of Sadiqabad. During the clash, the windowpanes of a car parked nearby were shattered.

Police said polling was stopped for some time due to the incident, and the clashing workers were arrested. 

Kasur

Supporters of the PML-N and Sunni Ittehad Council got into a physical brawl at polling station 311 in Khudian Khaas of NA-132 constituency here. The workers of both parties slapped each other for allegedly stopping women from casting their votes.

Police team reached the spot. 

Wazirabad

During polling in PP-36 of Wazirabad's 185 polling stations, three people were arrested by the police over fears of disturbance of peace.

As workers of the PML-N and PTI got into a clash in the Ahmednagar area, the polling process was stopped, and the gate of the polling station was closed by the police. The clash reportedly broke out after PTI workers accused the presiding officer of rigging. 

Alipur Chattha

A clash broke out at the Government Girls College Polling Station in Alipur Chattha, where workers and voters of the Sunni Ittehad Council got out of hand over voters being allowed to enter the polling station. The political workers attempted to forcefully open the gate of the polling station.

The clashes have raised concerns about the security and integrity of the electoral process in these areas. Both incidents have underscored the simmering tensions and rivalries that often characterize election days in the country.

Polling for by-elections in 21 constituencies of the National and provincial assemblies across the country was held from 8am to 5pm. 

By-elections have been being held in five constituencies of the National Assembly and 16 seats of three provincial assemblies. At some polling stations, a large number of presence of voters is being reported, while some paint a deserted look even a couple of hours into the polling process. 

Former Punjab chief minister Chaudhry Parvez Elahi was locking horns against Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) candidate and nephew Musa Elahi from PP-32 Gujrat.

According to details, the seat fell vacant after Chaudhry Salik Hussain retained his National Assembly seat.

Last month, the PTI stalwart decided and announced to contest the by-polls.

The family members met Parvez Elahi in jail and signed the nomination papers for the by-election.

In an informal conversation with journalists at the FIA court, Elahi said: “Ban on meetings in Adiala Jail is unconstitutional. They cheated the people by putting PTI's mandate. The people are already crushed, their self-esteem is being further undermined,” former chief minister of Punjab and former speaker of the Punjab Assembly said.  

“Form-45 will become a trap for these fake rulers,” Parvez Elahi claimed.

Polling for by-elections in 21 constituencies of the National and provincial assemblies across the country has ended at 5pm with reports of clashes among voters of the two main parties, the PML-N and Sunni Ittehad Council, from various areas of Punjab.

The voting commenced at the scheduled time of 8am and culminated at 5pm. 

By-elections were held in five constituencies of the National Assembly and 16 seats of three provincial assemblies. At some polling stations, a large number of voters were reported, while others painted a deserted look even a couple of hours into the polling process. 

Polling in PK-91 Kohat was held at a very slow pace, while voters turned out in large numbers to polling stations in the PB-20 Khuzdar constituency of Balochistan. Both young and old people, men and women, could be seen standing in queues under the sun to cast their votes. 

In Kasur's NA-132 constituency, the turnout was reported to be low due to wheat harvesting. In the PP-266 constituency of Sadiqabad also, the polling process was slow, while the turnout of women voters has been negligible. Voters are reportedly facing difficulties due to mobile phone service suspension. 

With only two hours left in the voting process to end, the turnout of voters has been negligible in NA-44 of Dera Ismail Khan, showing people's disinterest in the by-elections. This seat was vacated by KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. 

A similar trend has been witnessed in Gujrat's PP-32, where the polling process is reported to be slow owing to a lack of interest among the voters. Most of the polling stations are seen deserted, with no voters showing up. 

Moreover, the interprovincial link bridge, Dera Darya Khan, has been closed for traffic. The Punjab Police closed the road for all kinds of traffic by placing a container. Due to this, the voters from Bhakkar living in DI Khan are facing problems casting their ballots in the by-election in PP-93 of Bhakkar. 

National Assembly

NA-8 Bajaur: Election is being held in this constituency for the first time, as independent candidate, Rehan Zeb, was killed just a few days before the February 8 general elections. His brother Mubarak Zeb is vying for the seat as an independent candidate against Sunni Ittehad Council's Gul Zafar. 

Gul Dad Khan visiting PTI Camps in areas of NA8/PK22 Bajaur. pic.twitter.com/K5v60CxHIN

— PTI Politics Update (@PTI_Politics) April 21, 2024

NA-44 Dera Ismail Khan: This seat was vacated by KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur when he retained his provincial assembly seat of PK-113. PPP's Khorsheed Kundi is up against independent candidate Faisal Amin, the KP chief minister's brother, for this seat.

NA-119 Lahore: This seat was vacated by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz when she retained her provincial assembly seat of PP-159. Nine candidates, including PML-N's Ali Pervez Malik and Sunni Ittehad Council's Shahzad Farooq, are vying for this seat.

NA-132 Kasur: This seat was vacated by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who won all the seats he contested for. PML-N's Malik Rasheed will be contesting against Sardar Muhammad Hussain Dogar of the Sunni Ittehad Council. 

More than 520,000 voters are set to cast their votes here, while 60 of the 342 polling stations have been deemed sensitive where army, Rangers and police personnel are deployed. The turnout in this constituency in the February 8 elections was 58%.

NA-196 Kambar Shahdadkot: PPP's Khursheed Junejo and Muhammad Ali Brohi of the TLP are among the candidates in this constituency. This seat was vacated by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari. Voters
Around 423,000 voters are eligible to cast their votes in this constituency, where 303 polling stations have been set up for Sunday. 

Punjab Assembly

For the Punjab Assembly's 12 constituencies, 174 candidates are in the running, with over four million voters set to cast their votes. For this purpose, 2,601 polling stations have been set up across the province. 

In Lahore, by-elections will be held in one constituency of the National Assembly and four of Punjab Assembly.

The PP-147 seat of Punjab Assembly has 11 contestants, including PML-N's Malik Riaz and Muhammad Khan Madni. Similarly, for PP-149, the competition is among 14 candidates, including Shoaib Siddiqui of the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party and Qaiser Shehzad. 

For PP-158, a fierce contest is anticipated between PML-N candidate Chaudhry Nawaz and Moonis Elahi of the Sunni Ittehad Council, with a total of 22 candidates in the running.

Meanwhile, in PP-164, 20 candidates, including PML-N's Rashid Minhas and Muhammad Yousuf of the Sunni Ittehad Council, are gearing up for a tight electoral battle. 

In Wazirabad's PP-36 constituency, PML-N's Adnan Afzal Chattha is up against SIC’s Fayaz Chattha, while 155 polling stations have been set up here. 

The polling process is reportedly very slow, with 15 of the 185 polling stations declared highly sensitive. Around 318,000 voters are set to exercise their right to vote here. 

In Gujrat's PP-32, PTI-backed SIC candidate Chaudhry Parvez Elahi is contesting against his nephew Musa Elahi of the PML-Q. This seat had fallen vacant after PML-Q's Chaudhry Saalik Hussain retained his National Assembly seat and was later appointed a federal minister. 

In the PP-154 Zafarwal constituency, 155 polling stations have been set up for 24,805 eligible voters. A tough contest is expected between the PML-N and Sunni Ittehad Council candidates, while Rangers personnel have been deployed at sensitive polling stations. 

In PP-290 Dera Ghazi Khan, the competition is between seven candidates, including those belonging to the PML-N, PPP and PTI. There are 117 polling stations set up in this constituency, where 1,900 police personnel have been deployed. There are a total of 193,560 voters here. 

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly

Moreover, 49 candidates are contesting for two seats of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, PK-22 Bajaur and PK-91 Kohat, for which 1.47 million voters are eligible to cast their votes at 892 polling stations set up across KP. 

For the Kohat seat, a hot contest is expected between PTI-backed Sunni Ittehad Council's Dawar Afridi and independent candidate Imtiaz Qureshi, who are among the 10 candidates in the running here. 

There are 168 polling stations set up in the constituency, where heavy police contingents have been stationed.

Balochistan Assembly

For two seats of the Balochistan Assembly, PB-20 Khuzdar and PB-22 Lasbela, 12 candidates are in the race. These constituencies have 396,000 voters with 354 polling stations set up. 

In Khuzdar, 933,425 voters are eligible to cast their votes today. Despite 100% of the polling stations being declared sensitive, peaceful voting is being reported at all of them. Women and men in large numbers have been reported to be heading to the polling stations.
At least 1,400 security personnel have been deployed here and Levies and police officials are on high alert. 

Security duties

Civil armed forces and military personnel will be deployed to provide fool-proof security, with the army serving as a quick response force until April 22. Police personnel will be stationed at the first level of duty, followed by civil armed forces, and finally, Pakistan Army personnel.

Army and civil armed forces personnel will maintain neutrality during voting and counting, ensuring that they do not interfere with the election officers and staff. Any irregularities will be addressed by the presiding officer, with military forces refraining from taking action without permission.

The Election Commission of Pakistan has set up election monitoring and control centers to register and address public complaints during polling. These centers are located at provincial, divisional and district levels, in addition to the Election Commission Secretariat in Islamabad. 

Mobile and internet services in 13 districts and tehsils of Punjab, including Lahore, Gujrat, Kasur, and Sheikhupura, will be suspended on Sunday to ensure the maintenance of law and order during the by-elections on Sunday.

The Punjab Home Department has forwarded a formal letter to the Ministry of Interior, urging the suspension of mobile phone and internet services on the day of the by-elections.

According to the letter, mobile, and internet services are to be halted in specific areas to prevent any untoward incidents and to uphold security during the electoral process in 13 districts and tehsils of Punjab. 

The suspension of mobile and internet services will be enforced in Lahore, Sheikhupura, and Kasur districts. Additionally, in order to maintain law and order, mobile internet services will also be suspended in Talagang, Kallar Kahar, and Gujrat.

Also Read: By-elections to be held on 21 constituencies on April 21. Details inside.

Furthermore, mobile and internet services will be stopped in Alipur Chattha, Zafarwal, and Bhakkar, with similar measures planned for Sadiqabad and Dera Ghazi Khan. 

The Home Department has dispatched copies of the letter requesting the suspension of services to the Punjab chief secretary, the inspector general of police, and the chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) for necessary action. 

In addition to the Ministry of Interior, the department has also dispatched copies of the letter to the commissioner, the Lahore capital city police officer (CCPO) and other relevant officers to coordinate and implement the suspension effectively.

The polling for the by-elections in 21 constituencies is scheduled to take place on April 21. The election commission announced that campaigning for the by-polls ended on Friday midnight. 

Also Read: Preps underway for by-elections for one NA, four PA seats from Lahore

Elections will be held in the following constituencies of the National Assembly: NA-8 Bajaur, NA-44 Dera Ismail Khan, NA-119 Lahore, NA-132 Kasur, NA-196 Kambar Shahdadkot. 

Elections will be held on these constituencies of Punjab Assembly: PP-22 Chakwal-cum-Talagang, PP-32 Gujrat, PP-36 Wazirabad, PP-54 Narowal, PP-93 Bhakkar, PP-139 Sheikhupura, PP-147 Lahore, PP-149 Lahore, PP-158 Lahore, PP-164 Lahore, PP-266 Rahim Yar Khan, PP-290 DG Khan. 

Elections will be held on these constituencies of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly: PK-22 Bajaur, PK-91 Kohat.

Elections will be held on these constituencies of Balochistan Assembly: PB-20 Khuzdar and PB-22 Lasbela. 

With by-elections scheduled in one constituency of the National Assembly from Lahore and Punjab Assembly's four, preparations are in full swing as election materials are being delivered to polling stations across the city.

The polling process, set to take place from 8am to 5pm tomorrow, will see voters casting their ballots to fill vacant seats in both the National and provincial assemblies. As per the latest updates, election materials are being dispatched today from the returning officers' (ROs) camp offices to the presiding officers to ensure a smooth and organized polling process.

Nine candidates, including prominent figures like PML-N's Ali Pervaiz and PTI's Shahzad Farooq, are vying for the NA-119 seat, while PP-147 has 11 contestants, including PML-N's Malik Riaz and Muhammad Khan Madani.

Similarly, for PP-149, a competitive race is likely with 14 candidates, including Mohammad Shoaib Siddiqui of the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party and Qaiser Shehzad. 

For PP-158, a fierce contest is anticipated between PML-N candidate Chaudhry Nawaz and Moonis Elahi of the Sunni Ittehad Council, with a total of 22 candidates in the running.

Meanwhile, in PP-164, 20 candidates, including PML-N's Rashid Minhas and Muhammad Yousuf of the Sunni Ittehad Council, are gearing up for a tight electoral battle.

Also Read: By-elections to be held on 21 constituencies on April 21. Details inside.

The process of delivering election materials for the National and Punjab Assembly constituencies in Lahore has commenced, with the returning officers overseeing the distribution of materials to the presiding officers.

Under tight security provided by law enforcement agencies, the presiding officers are now en route to their designated polling stations to ensure the integrity and security of the electoral process. 

The polling for the by-elections in 21 constituencies is scheduled to take place on April 21. The election commission announced that campaigning for the by-polls ended on Friday midnight. 

Elections will be held in the following constituencies of the National Assembly: NA-8 Bajaur, NA-44 Dera Ismail Khan, NA-119 Lahore, NA-132 Kasur, NA-196 Kambar Shahdadkot. 

Elections will be held on these constituencies of Punjab Assembly: PP-22 Chakwal-cum-Talagang, PP-32 Gujrat, PP-36 Wazirabad, PP-54 Narowal, PP-93 Bhakkar, PP-139 Sheikhupura, PP-147 Lahore, PP-149 Lahore, PP-158 Lahore, PP-164 Lahore, PP-266 Rahim Yar Khan, PP-290 DG Khan. 

Elections will be held on these constituencies of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly: PK-22 Bajaur, PK-91 Kohat.

Elections will be held on these constituencies of Balochistan Assembly: PB-20 Khuzdar and PB-22 Lasbela. 

Balochistan National Party (Mengal) chief Akhtar Mengal on Friday asserted that the plan was being made to rig the upcoming by-elections, slated to happen on April 21 (Sunday).

Expressing his thoughts in Khuzdar, Mengal said: "We will thwart the efforts of rigging through the power of the masses. The masses will not spare the presiding officers if they become part of the rigging."

He lamented that Balochistan is facing unrest. "The provincial government is worried about rigging."

– 'Pre-poll rigging' started ahead of by-elections, asserts Omar Ayub –

Few days back, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Omar Ayub claimed that the “pre-poll rigging” started ahead of the by-elections.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Ayub said: “The RO had been directed to provide Form 45 to the PTI. The incumbent government came into existence through Form 47, which violated the constitution.”
 
Speaking about the Iran-Israel conflict, Ayub said: “No policy statement has been issued in connection with the Iran-Israel conflict.”
 
He lamented: “Masses should get ready, as the price of gasoline will be increased again after 15 days.”

Ayub challenged the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) to stage a public gathering in Chaman.
 
Expressing his thoughts in line with the arrival of a Saudi delegation to Pakistan, Ayub said: “We welcome a Saudi delegation to Pakistan.”

He took a swipe at the Punjab IG, saying, “The Punjab IG is not managing to provide protection to his own police.”
 
Ayub lamented the “unemployment” in the country, saying, “The masses are facing hardships due to the unemployment.”