Liaqat Baloch issues warning against any misconduct during the electoral process
LAHORE, Jan 06 (SABAH): Jamaat-e-Islami Vice-Emir Liaqat Baloch has issued warning against any misconduct during the electoral process, emphasizing that actions ranging from voter harassment to manipulating election results on polling day could lead to a dangerous escalation of the situation and further instability.
Liaqat Baloch, who is running for election in two national assembly constituencies in Lahore (NA-123, NA-128), held a press conference at Mansoorah alongside JI Secretary-General and NA-126 candidate Ameerul Azim, along with other JI leaders on Tuesday.
Despite expressing concerns, Liaqat Baloch conveyed optimism that the election itself could serve as an opportunity to bring about stability.
During the press conference, Liaqat Baloch highlighted issues with the polling scheme proposed by the Election Commission of Pakistan, labelling it as a conspiracy to discourage voter turnout and disillusion the electorate. He stressed the importance of allowing voters to freely exercise their right to choose their representatives through a transparent and hassle-free process. Liaqat Baloch urged the public to turn out in large numbers and cast their votes despite the prevailing circumstances.
Additionally, Baloch raised concerns about the discrepancies in reporting election results, specifically requesting that results be provided on Form 45 with both numerical figures and written words. Despite the JI’s demand, the Election Commission did not accede to the request. Baloch emphasized that presiding officers who refuse to issue Form 45 to polling agents should be held accountable according to the law. He also brought attention to the violation of the election code of conduct by candidates from other political parties, citing instances of open vote-buying.
Baloch highlighted the success of the JI’s polling campaign under the leadership of JI Emir Sirajul Haq. With over 232 contestants in the National Assembly and 524 candidates in Provincial Assembly seats, all contesting under the election symbol of the “Scale,” Baloch asserted that people are increasingly recognizing the JI as the only viable solution. He argued that the performance of other long-ruling parties has been exposed, and if the JI were to come into power, it would initiate a national dialogue to address toxic polarization and work towards fixing the economy.