Shahnaz Umar Ayub Leads in NA-18 Haripur By-Election After 109 Polling Stations Counted

Islamabad — The unofficial results of the NA-18 Haripur by-election are continuing to emerge, showing a close contest between major candidates.

According to preliminary results from **109 out of 602 polling stations**, **PTI-backed independent candidate Shahnaz Umar Ayub** is leading with **36,132 votes**, while **PML-N’s Babar Nawaz Khan** is in second place with **35,614 votes**.

A total of nine candidates are contesting the by-election, with the main competition expected between Shahnaz Umar Ayub, Babar Nawaz Khan, and **PPP’s Erum Fatima**. Additionally, six other independent candidates are in the race.

NA-18 Haripur has **753,944 registered voters**, with **602 polling stations** established for the by-election.

The seat became vacant after **PTI’s Omar Ayub Khan** was disqualified following his sentencing in connection with the May 9 riot cases.