Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has accused Punjab police of supporting violence and voter suppression during the by-election in PP-52 Sialkot. PTI’s Central Information Secretary, Sheikh Waqas Akram, strongly condemned the conduct of the election, claiming it was marred by blatant interference and intimidation.
Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Sheikh Waqas said that despite heavy turnout at PTI’s rallies, their agents and supporters were forcefully removed from polling stations. He alleged that ruling party workers openly stamped ballots while police stood by. “Police backed the thuggery happening in Sialkot. Our people were beaten and thrown out of polling station 37,” he stated.
Furthermore, Sheikh Waqas claimed the by-election was already won by PTI, but efforts were made to snatch the public mandate once again. He questioned the role of the Chief Election Commissioner, asking why he was still active despite the end of his tenure. “There was no check and balance throughout the polling process,” he added.
He also criticized the Election Commission’s helplines, saying they remained inaccessible throughout the day. He warned police officers involved, stating, “Instead of protecting voters, you became part of the violence — we strongly condemn this lawlessness.”
Meanwhile, PPP’s Central Punjab General Secretary Syed Hassan Murtaza also voiced concerns, stating that serious irregularities were taking place, especially at polling stations like Mitran Wali. He added that many faces were being exposed and claimed PPP was regaining strength in Punjab.
Despite these challenges, both PTI and PPP claimed strong voter turnout in their favor. However, allegations of rigging and intimidation have cast a shadow over the transparency of the by-election process.