Dr. Yasmin Rashid Alleges Massive Rigging in Punjab By-Elections

Dr. Yasmin Rashid, a prominent member of the PTI currently incarcerated in connection with May 9 violent incidents, has raised serious concerns regarding the recent by-elections held in Punjab on April 21. In a letter addressed to Chief Justice of Pakistan, Dr. Rashid highlighted what she described as 'massive rigging' that took place during the by-elections, undermining the integrity of the electoral process.

Dr. Rashid criticized the PML-N's slogan of 'Vote ko Izzat dau' (Give respect to vote), stating that the by-elections had exposed the hollowness of this claim. She pointed out that despite challenges and state oppression, voters had turned out in large numbers during the general elections on February 8, leading to the formation of governments by the PML-N in Punjab and at the federal level.

However, Dr. Rashid alleged that the by-elections witnessed even more egregious malpractices, including pre-stuffing of ballot boxes before voting commenced. She admonished the opposition parties, urging them to reflect on their actions and cease perpetrating injustices against the public.

Dr. Rashid also criticized the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), accusing it of being biased towards the PML-N and lacking credibility both domestically and internationally.

The allegations of massive rigging in the Punjab by-elections by Dr. Yasmin Rashid have raised significant concerns about the fairness and transparency of the electoral process in Pakistan. The call for intervention by the Chief Justice of Pakistan underscores the gravity of the situation, highlighting the need for impartial oversight to uphold the democratic principles of free and fair elections.