The Election Commission has stirred controversy by issuing a notice to former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif following a request from PTI-backed independent candidate Yasmin Rashid in NA-130. The Election Commission's directive comes amidst allegations of electoral misconduct, with Yasmin Rashid's lawyer and PTI leader, Advocate Ahmed Owais, decrying what he calls "the worst rigged elections in the history of Pakistan." Owais, speaking at a press conference at Lahore Press Club, cited discrepancies in voting numbers, alleging that Sharif had hastily secured a difference of 74,000 votes.

He pointed out that the final result revealed a significant increase in Sharif's vote count from previously withheld polling stations. Highlighting irregularities in the electoral process, Owais stressed the need for strict action against rigging as mandated by the constitution. He further emphasized the importance of transparency, citing Section 92 and raising concerns about the role of the Returning Officer in Form 47 issuance. The Election Commission has postponed the hearing on Yasmin Rashid's request until February 27, as scrutiny and debate over the integrity of the electoral process continue to escalate in NA-130.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)