Syed Ali Shah:
Quetta, Balochistan: Ali Madad Jattak, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) candidate and former provincial minister, was declared the winner in the re-election for PB-45 Quetta on Sunday night.
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) announced Jattak’s victory, dismissing claims of rigging made by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) candidate Mir Usman Pikai, who also claimed victory.
The re-election on PB-45 was conducted after Jattak’s earlier election win was challenged by JUI-F candidate Mir Usman Pirkani. Speaking about his victory, Jattak said, “This victory is a testament to the people’s support and their confidence in me. I thank my voters for standing by me despite all challenges.”
He further stated, “The elections were conducted transparently, and the results reflect the true will of the people.”
However, JUI-F chief Maulana Abdul Wasay accused the ECP of orchestrating “massive rigging and electoral engineering.” Addressing a press conference, he said, “The administration and ECP blatantly violated electoral laws, making this election a farce.”
Wasay announced a series of protests, including sit-ins and highway blockades, adding, “We will not accept this fraudulent result and will continue to resist this injustice.”
The situation in Quetta remains tense as JUI-F supporters staged protests outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office, demanding a recount and investigation.
Internet and mobile services were suspended in Quetta on Sunday night, further disrupting daily life. The government has yet to announce when services will be restored.
Quetta’s roads presented a deserted look following JUI-F’s strike call, and highways connecting Balochistan to the rest of the country were blocked. As tensions rise, the province awaits further developments.
