Opposition parties unite in Sindh to protest against election rigging

KARACHI, Feb 23 (SABAH): In a joint press conference held in Karachi on Friday, the Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA), along with Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), Jamaat-e-Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Haqiqi (MQM-H) announced plans to stage a protest outside the Sindh Assembly on Saturday.

The announcement was made by key leaders including JDA Chief Coordinator Sadruddin Shah Rashidi, JUI-F Sindh chief Maulana Rashid Soomro, JI Karachi chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, and PTI Sindh President Haleem Adil Shaikh.

During the press conference, Rashidi asserted, “Our protest is against the bogus election because notes were used instead of votes.” He emphasised that the peaceful struggle would persist until the return of the public mandate, noting the coalition’s determination to challenge what they perceive as electoral malpractice.

Dr Safdar Ali Abbasi highlighted their rejection of the election results, citing successful sit-ins in Jamshoro and Moro as evidence of public discontent. He reiterated their commitment to peaceful means, stating, “We will protest against elections as per our legal and constitutional right.”

He added, “Our struggle is peaceful, not a stone has been hurled anywhere. We will protest against elections as per our legal and constitutional right. We are seeking new elections.”

Responding to questions, JI’s Hafiz Naeem declared solidarity with the GDA, confirming their decision not to take oath alongside PTI members. He criticised the “distribution” of seats between the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P).

PTI’s Haleem Adil Shaikh echoed these sentiments, accusing the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) of complicity in mandate theft. He stressed incidents of rigging and asserted PTI’s legitimate claim to 22 National Assembly seats in Sindh.

JUI-F’s Rashid Soomro warned against obstructing the planned protest, holding the administration accountable for any resulting consequences. He recalled past protests with notable political figures and called upon supporters to mobilise for the upcoming demonstration.

The decision to protest comes ahead of the Sindh Assembly session scheduled for February 24, where newly elected members are set to take oath.