In Sahiwal, a web of alliances, betrayals, and independent pursuits has unfolded, reshaping the electoral dynamics in NA-142 and the NA-141 constituencies.
Former MNA Rana Tariq Javed’s unexpected pivot towards supporting Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) candidate Chaudhry Usman Ali in NA-142 has sent shockwaves through the region. Javed’s decision, despite being a contender himself, is poised to disrupt the vote bank of Chaudhry Ashraf, the PML-N stalwart in the same constituency.
Adding fuel to the fire, Ayesha Arshad Lodhi, denied a PML-N ticket, has decided to contest independently, further splintering the PML-N vote in NA-142. Meanwhile, in a retaliatory move, Chaudhry Asif, sidelined due to controversy, has fielded Mian Hussain Rammay as an independent candidate, intensifying the intra-party feud.
In the adjacent NA-141, Rana Amir Shahzad, backed by his brother Rana Tariq Javed, secured a PTI ticket, leveraging the Arain vote bank against the PML-N stronghold.
The ripple effect extends to the provincial level, with PML-N’s internal divisions inadvertently aiding PTI candidates in PP-201, as Ayesha’s husband, Naveed Lodhi, faces formidable challenges from within his own party.
Liaqat Lodhi’s reluctance to support Ayesha in Harappa further exacerbates PML-N’s woes, potentially bolstering PTI’s prospects in the region.
Historically PML-N bastions, NA-142 and NA-141 now teeter on the brink of change. Farid Kathia of PPP and Rana Amir Shahzad of PTI emerge as formidable contenders, capitalizing on the disarray within the PML-N ranks.ECP
