[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text dp_text_size=”size-4″]Amidst widespread protests denouncing alleged irregularities in the February 8 elections in Pakistan, the United States has expressed apprehensions regarding the presence of “intimidation and voter suppression” during the polling process. The transparency of the general elections held on February 8 has been cast into doubt due to substantial delays in the announcement of results and the suspension of mobile services on the day of polling.
White House spokesperson John Kirby addressed concerns during a press briefing on Thursday, stating, “We are closely monitoring the situation” and highlighting worries about instances of “intimidation and voter suppression” observed during the elections. Kirby emphasized that international monitors are currently in the process of reviewing the election results, refraining from preempting their findings.
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Protests against purported rigging and manipulation have erupted across the country, involving various political parties such as PTI, JUI-F, JI, and other nationalist groups. Despite the absence of a decisive majority for any party in last week’s elections, independent candidates supported by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) secured 92 seats in the National Assembly, making them the leading force, followed by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP).
Concerns about the fairness of the February 8 election have not only emerged domestically within Pakistan but have also garnered attention in major foreign capitals. Washington, in particular, had previously criticized what it deemed “undue restrictions” on freedom of expression and assembly in the lead-up to the elections.
In addition to the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and UN Chief Antonio Guterres have called on Pakistan to investigate the allegations of rigging and urged efforts to mitigate political tensions. However, caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar asserted on Monday that Pakistan would not initiate an investigation into the alleged rigging under external pressure.
The situation surrounding the February 8 elections remains tense, with the outcomes subject to scrutiny and protests continuing to unfold. As international actors weigh in on the need for a thorough investigation into the alleged irregularities, Pakistan’s political landscape is navigating a delicate balance between addressing concerns raised by various parties and maintaining sovereignty in the face of external pressures. The coming days are likely to shed light on the course of action taken by Pakistani authorities in response to both domestic and international calls for scrutiny and transparency in the electoral process.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
