Shazia Marri Alleges Pre-Poll Rigging in Gilgit-Baltistan Elections, Calls for Fair Polls
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians (PPPP) Central Information Secretary Shazia Marri has alleged that fears of electoral defeat have driven political opponents to engage in pre-poll rigging ahead of the upcoming Gilgit-Baltistan elections.
In a statement regarding the electoral process in Gilgit-Baltistan, Marri said that the growing popularity of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has unsettled rival political parties, prompting attempts to influence the election outcome before polling day.
She called for the conduct of free, fair, transparent, and impartial elections in Gilgit-Baltistan, stressing that the democratic process must remain free from interference.
Marri claimed that complaints of irregularities and interference in the electoral process were being received from various constituencies. According to her, reports have emerged of transfers of administrative officials and alterations to voter lists, raising concerns about the integrity of the election process.
She warned that efforts to make the elections controversial would be detrimental to democratic values and undermine public confidence in the electoral system.
The PPP leader also expressed concern over reports that state machinery was being used to influence election results. She emphasized that the mandate of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan must be protected at all costs and said any attempt to manipulate public opinion would be unacceptable.
Marri further questioned the participation of federal ministers in election campaigns, arguing that such involvement raises concerns about the neutrality and transparency of the electoral process.
Addressing the Chief Election Commissioner, she asked what concrete steps had been taken so far to ensure a level playing field for all political parties. She noted that under Article 218 of the Constitution, the Election Commission is responsible for conducting honest, just, and transparent elections.
The PPP spokesperson also raised concerns over the presence of Punjab Police personnel in Gilgit-Baltistan during the election period, saying that the development had generated several questions regarding the conduct of the polls.
She urged the Election Commission to take immediate notice of all complaints related to the misuse of government resources and to ensure equal opportunities for all political parties participating in the elections.
Marri expressed confidence that the people of Gilgit-Baltistan would support democratic forces through the power of their vote and reiterated that any attempt to undermine the public mandate would be contrary to democratic principles.
