Summary
- The party claims that the deployment of thousands of additional security personnel and restrictions on political activities are creating an unfair electoral environment.
- According to the party, the heavy security presence is excessive and has raised concerns among voters and political workers.
- PTI leaders claimed that administrative pressure was being used against candidates and activists associated with the party.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has alleged large-scale pre-poll rigging ahead of the Gilgit-Baltistan elections scheduled for June 7. The party claims that the deployment of thousands of additional security personnel and restrictions on political activities are creating an unfair electoral environment.
PTI leaders said more than 13,000 security personnel from outside Gilgit-Baltistan have been deployed across the region in addition to local police. According to the party, the heavy security presence is excessive and has raised concerns among voters and political workers.
The party alleged that the deployment is not merely for maintaining peace but is being used to influence the electoral process. PTI leaders claimed that the move has created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty ahead of polling day.
PTI also expressed concerns over reported disruptions to internet and communication services in several areas. Party officials said such measures have affected coordination among workers and supporters during the final phase of the election campaign.
The party further alleged that several of its workers and supporters were detained in recent days. PTI leaders claimed that administrative pressure was being used against candidates and activists associated with the party.
According to PTI, some of its political representatives faced difficulties during the nomination process, while campaign activities were allegedly restricted in various constituencies. The party argued that these actions have undermined the principles of free and fair elections.
PTI leaders maintained that the people of Gilgit-Baltistan should be allowed to exercise their right to vote without intimidation or interference. They called for transparency throughout the electoral process and urged authorities to ensure a level playing field for all political parties.
The party also appealed to democratic institutions, human rights organizations, and election observers to closely monitor the elections and protect the democratic rights of voters.
Separately, PTI criticized the decision by the Azad Jammu and Kashmir government to ban the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). The party said political and public grievances should be resolved through dialogue and constitutional means rather than restrictions and force.
PTI stated that peaceful political movements and democratic demands should be addressed through negotiations and engagement. It warned that suppressing dissent and limiting political space could increase tensions and weaken democratic institutions.
We welcome your contributions! Submit your blogs, opinion pieces, press releases, news story pitches, and news features to [email protected] and [email protected]
