In a bold declaration, Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) chief Pir Pagara has voiced his belief that the country may face the imposition of “emergency or martial law,” with the judiciary providing legal cover, as his party protests against the alleged rigging in the February 8 general elections.
Following the release of unofficial election results, several political parties have taken to the streets, while major winners seek alliances to form governments at the national and provincial levels.
The Pagara-led GDA, expressing dissatisfaction with the outcomes, initiated an agitation drive against the perceived election rigging, particularly contesting the Pakistan Peoples Party’s victory in Sindh.
Addressing a massive protest in Jamshoro city, Pir Pagara, also known as Sibghatullah Shah Rashdi, claimed, “The Army has tested everyone now… no one can take control of the federation except the military.”
He raised serious reservations about the 2024 election results, alleging that results had been predetermined, with payments disbursed months before the nationwide polls.
Pagara, emphasizing his refusal to spend exorbitant sums on public meetings, expressed reluctance to engage in politics that demand falsehoods. He stated that the recent polls revealed the absence of a national-level leader in the country.
While staging protests against alleged poll rigging, Pagara clarified that the demonstrations were not directed against national institutions, including the armed forces.
He acknowledged the country’s security provided by the armed forces but signaled difficulty for any party to govern without a “national-level leader.”
Pagara predicted the potential imposition of ’emergency or martial law’ in the face of uncertainty, with the judiciary granting it legal cover.
