Islamabad: The Central Information Secretary of the Pakistan Peoples Party, Nadeem Afzal Chan, has raised serious concerns over the conduct of elections in Azad Kashmir, alleging deliberate attempts to manipulate the electoral process. Chan emphasized that the Pakistan Peoples Party is committed to democracy and will not accept any form of coercion or rigging.
According to Pakistan Peoples Party, Chan addressed a press conference where he detailed over 15 formal complaints from the party's Election Cell regarding irregularities. He highlighted significant issues, such as delays in providing election materials and staff at polling stations in constituencies LA-27 and LA-28, traditionally PPP strongholds. Chan accused the Pakistan Muslim League-N of not responding to demands for re-polling in four constituencies where evidence of rigging was presented.
Chan further pointed out that voter turnout in the first phase did not exceed 26 percent, reflecting a lack of public confidence in the electoral process. He criticized the phased election approach, claiming it was intended to influence results rather than promote transparency.
Incidents of violence and intimidation have also been reported, including an attack on senior party leader Chaudhry Latif Akbar, causing a tense election environment. Complaints of missing ballot papers and delayed provision of election materials have emerged from various regions, raising questions about the transparency and impartiality of the elections.
Despite internal discussions about boycotting the second phase, the PPP's central leadership decided to participate to uphold democratic values. Chan called on the Azad Kashmir Election Commission to address the submitted complaints and ensure the elections are conducted fairly and transparently.
The PPP's primary focus, Chan reiterated, is on establishing peace in Kashmir and resolving public issues through fair elections. He warned against administrative manipulation and interference, stating that the party will not accept any controversial electoral process.