ISLAMABAD: Despite assurances from the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) regarding the provision of adequate facilities at polling stations nationwide, voting faced delays at multiple polling stations in various localities.
Karachi’s NA-238 constituency
In Karachi’s NA-238 constituency, polling station number 81 experienced a delayed start to the balloting process. The absence of election staff caused a delay in the commencement of voting, prompting the presiding officer to seek assistance from the returning officer’s office.
Due to logistical challenges, including the suspension of mobile services and the late arrival of polling staff, registered voters were left waiting for hours. The situation led to frustration among citizens, many of whom had queued up outside the polling station since early morning.
Tehsil Salarzai, Bajaur:
In Tehsil Salarzai, located near the Afghan border, voting at two women’s polling stations was yet to commence due to the unavailability of polling staff. This delay highlighted logistical issues in remote areas. Election officials assured that measures were being taken to address the situation, with efforts underway to deploy polling staff promptly.
Clashes in Kot Addu, Punjab:
Incidents of violence marred the electoral process in Punjab’s Kot Addu district, where clashes erupted between supporters of rival candidates. Altercations between the followers of PML-N candidate Amjad Abbas Chandia and independent candidate Murtaza Raheem Khar turned into physical confrontations, leaving 15 persons injured.
Armed Clashes in NA-59 Chakwal, Punjab:
In the NA-59 Chakwal constituency, an armed clash between two groups outside a polling station resulted in four persons sustaining gunshot wounds. The clash disrupted the voting process temporarily. The incident underscores the need for enhanced security measures to safeguard voters and maintain peace during the elections.
