Khuzdar: Mir Muhammad Usman Announces Boycott of By-Election Over Security Concerns

Khuzdar (Qudrat Daily) – Former Member of the National Assembly and independent candidate Mir Muhammad Usman Advocate has announced a boycott of the upcoming by-election in constituency NA-256, citing deteriorating law and order conditions and alleged obstacles to the free exercise of voting rights.

Speaking to the media at Khuzdar Press Club, he stated that he would not participate in the by-election scheduled for April 5. He argued that when local administration and the provincial government themselves have acknowledged that elections cannot be held under current conditions, it raises serious questions about the possibility of conducting free and fair polls.

Mir Muhammad Usman noted that voter turnout in by-elections is generally low, and under the present circumstances—where a significant portion of the district is beyond effective government control—the voting process would be even more difficult. He stressed that putting the lives and property of voters, government staff, and the public at risk would be unwise.

He further alleged that election authorities either lack awareness of ground realities or are not serious about ensuring transparent elections. After reviewing the situation, he said, he decided to boycott the by-election as an independent candidate.

He urged the government to improve the law and order situation before holding the polls, ensuring that every citizen can cast their vote freely. Otherwise, he said, conducting the election would not be appropriate.