In the midst of political uncertainty following the February 8 general elections, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) announced its decision to assume the role of the opposition in both the Centre and Punjab, as per directives from party founder Imran Khan.
PTI leader Barrister Saif, addressing journalists after a meeting with the Qaumi Watan Party (QWP) in Islamabad, emphasized the party’s commitment to sit on the opposition benches despite claims that they could have formed the government if results aligned with the votes received.
Saif asserted that Form-45s were evidence of PTI-backed candidates’ victories, but results were allegedly altered in Form-47s.
He highlighted the party’s efforts to engage with other political parties on Khan’s orders, citing a delegation led by Asad Qaiser’s visit to the QWP secretariat.
Describing the 2024 polls as “rigged,” Saif expressed concern over widespread complaints and alleged tampering with people’s votes.
He warned that celebrating short-term victories could pose a significant long-term problem for the nation and parliamentary democracy in Pakistan.
Advocating for harmony and reconciliation, Saif shared details of the meeting with QWP, where PTI requested their support in protesting against the alleged rigging.
QWP leader Sikandar Sherpao indicated that their course of action would be announced after presenting PTI’s proposal to the party’s committee.
The February 8 elections, marked by various extraordinary aspects, did not yield the expected outcomes, with no party securing a simple majority.
Despite PTI-affiliated independent candidates dominating the results, PML-N claimed the ability to form a government with support from some independents.
PTI, alleging the polls were not free and fair, plans countrywide peaceful protests against the alleged rigging.
In a joint press conference, PTI-backed independent candidates emphasized that the elections had set new records of rigging, challenging the credibility of the electoral process in Pakistan’s history.
