In the political theater of National Assembly constituency NA-71 Sialkot-II, the spotlight intensifies as Rehana Imtiaz Dar, an independent candidate and mother of former PTI leader Usman Dar, throws her hat into the ring against the seasoned PML-N figure, Khawaja Asif.
The pivotal question looms: Can Khawaja Asif secure his seat, having narrowly defeated Usman Dar in 2018 by a margin of 1,406 votes?
With a history as a PML-N stronghold, NA-71 has witnessed Khawaja Asif’s electoral victories in 1997, 2008, 2013, and 2018.
Despite the PML-N’s steadfast nomination of Asif for the upcoming election, formidable opposition arises. PTI lends its support to Rehana Imtiaz Dar, while Khawaja Owais runs on a PPP ticket.
Sialkot, famed for football exports, touts a 65% literacy rate and 577,281 voters.
The 2018 elections sparked controversy, leading to objections from Usman Dar, who later resigned from PTI. Dynamics shifted post-Imran Khan’s arrest, creating a political void filled by Rehana Imtiaz Dar.
Analysts contend that, pre-May 9, 2023, Usman Dar would have secured a substantial lead against Khawaja Asif.
Recent developments, including the mistreatment of Usman Dar’s mother, breathed new life into the Dar family’s political standing.
Public polls suggest Rehana Dar holds a favorable position, though Khawaja Asif remains a formidable opponent.
Opponents allege district administration support for Khawaja Asif, citing facilitation of a PML-N event.
Analysts posit Rehana Dar’s victory if law and order prevail, reminiscent of the 2018 election.
Election management and a high voter turnout are considered pivotal for the final outcome, with Rehana Dar poised for success if these factors align.