Independent candidates backed by Imran Khan’s party shock Pakistan elections

The ballots are being tallied in Pakistan following the general election on Thursday, which was marred by accusations of manipulation, isolated incidents of violence and a nationwide mobile phone blackout

Imran Khan’s party-supported independent candidates, despite the unexpected delays in the release of results, appeared to have caused a stir as the general election results in Pakistan began to emerge on Friday, prompting accusations of rigging.

The counting of votes is under way in Pakistan after Thursday’s general election, which was tainted by claims of manipulation, isolated violence and a nationwide mobile phone shutdown. 

On Friday, Pakistani authorities were slow to release the election results, revealing a surprising turn of events where independent candidates supported by the disqualified and imprisoned former Prime Minister Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf took the lead.  

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) faced criticism for delays in announcing results, with only a few results officially published. Private media channels indicated PTI-backed candidates were in the lead.  

Various news sources reported conflicting numbers for seats won by different parties, adding to the uncertainty. The excruciating delay led to allegations of fraud and demands for prompt results. The ECP, under pressure, issued strict instructions to ensure immediate result declarations.  

The return of apparent PTI victories led to the suspension of result releases by Returning Officers. Despite the challenges, the election process continued, with a significant number of seats up for grabs in the National Assembly and provincial assemblies. 

Source: Newsroom