Pakistan goes to the polls today in six National Assembly and seven Punjab Assembly constituencies, marking a decisive moment for political dynamics in the country.
Voting began at 8:00 AM and will continue until 5:00 PM, with stringent security measures in place to ensure a peaceful and fair electoral process.
The by-elections have drawn significant attention, as outcomes in pivotal constituencies like NA-129 Lahore and NA-143 Sahiwal could influence the broader political landscape.
Polling and Security Measures:
According to the Election Commission of Pakistan, a total of 2,792 polling stations have been set up across the constituencies, including 408 classified as highly sensitive and 1,032 as sensitive.
Over 2,000 security personnel have been deployed to maintain order, and voters are urged to cast their ballots without fear or hindrance.
National Assembly By-Elections:
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NA-18 Haripur: Nine candidates are contesting, including PTI-backed independent Shehrnaz, PML-N’s Babar Nawaz Khan, and PPP’s Aram Fatima. The seat was vacated following PTI’s Omar Ayub’s disqualification.
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NA-96: A total of 16 candidates, including PML-N, PPP, and independents, are in the fray. Male voters number 372,133, while female voters total 272,991.
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NA-104: Five candidates, including PML-N’s Raja Daniyal and independent Rana Adnan Javed, are competing. Total registered voters: 557,637.
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NA-129 Lahore: A closely watched constituency with candidates including PML-N’s Hafiz Muhammad Noman, independent Bijash Khan Niazi, and Arslan Ahmed. 334 polling stations have been established, with 70 serving both male and female voters. The by-election follows the passing of Mian Azhar. Political analysts consider NA-129 pivotal for Lahore’s overall political direction.
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NA-143 Sahiwal: A tight contest between PML-N and PTI-backed candidates, with 584,698 registered voters.
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NA-185: Candidates from PML-N, PPP, and JUI-F are competing, with strong competition expected.
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NA-66 Wazirabad: After the withdrawal of PPP and other candidates, PML-N’s Bilal Farooq Tarar is set to win unopposed.
Punjab Assembly By-Elections:
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PP-87 Mianwali-III: 193 polling stations and 640 booths (332 male and 308 female) have been established for this constituency, with a total of 283,272 registered voters.
High Alert Security:
In Punjab, police have completed extensive security arrangements for the by-elections. Over 20,000 personnel have been deployed to ensure a secure voting environment.
Punjab IG Dr. Usman Anwar confirmed that voters will be provided a peaceful environment, with strict enforcement of election rules and Section 144.
Highly sensitive polling stations are under continuous CCTV monitoring.
