Ali Khan Mandokhail, News Desk:
ZHOB, QUETTA – Pashtunkhwa National Awami Party (PkNAP) Chairman Khushal Khan Kakar has emerged in the lead following the recount of votes in NA-251, according to unofficial results. The recount was conducted in 22 polling stations as per the directive of the Election Tribunal. However, the official confirmation is expected after the Returning Officer submits the report to the tribunal on June 4.
The development marks a significant turn in the NA-251 contest, where the recount appears to favor PkNAP. However, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) Balochistan has strongly rejected the process, terming it politically motivated and unconstitutional.
JUI leader Maulana Abdul Wasay alleged that the recount was carried out without notifying the party or ensuring the presence of its polling agents. “This is not a technical lapse—it is an intentional effort to rig the outcome. The Returning Officer’s conduct has been completely biased and lacks constitutional validity,” he said.
The JUI has accused administration of acting on behalf of certain forces, undermining electoral transparency and democratic norms. Despite Khushal Kakar’s apparent lead, JUI has vowed to contest the legitimacy of the recount.
As the political temperature rises in the province, the final decision now rests with the Election Tribunal, which is expected to review the Returning Officer’s report on June 4.
