{"id":37854,"date":"2023-12-20T21:33:07","date_gmt":"2023-12-20T21:33:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/news.pakistaninewspaperlist.com\/analysts-decry-blatant-interference-in-electoral-process-the-express-tribune\/"},"modified":"2023-12-20T21:33:07","modified_gmt":"2023-12-20T21:33:07","slug":"analysts-decry-blatant-interference-in-electoral-process-the-express-tribune","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pakistaninewspaperlist.com\/news\/analysts-decry-blatant-interference-in-electoral-process-the-express-tribune\/","title":{"rendered":"Analysts decry \u2018blatant interference\u2019 in electoral process | The Express Tribune"},"content":{"rendered":"
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In the lead-up to the general elections in Pakistan, the political landscape is intensifying, particularly for the Pakistan Tehreek-Insaf (PTI) party and its incarcerated former chairman, Imran Khan.<\/p>\n

A series of contentious incidents have spurred accusations of unfair play, creating a charged atmosphere as the nation approaches a crucial electoral moment.<\/p>\n

Chairman of PTI, Gohar Khan, has declared that Imran Khan will contest from three constituencies, adding a layer of complexity to an already contentious political scenario.<\/p>\n

Simultaneously, PTI lawyer Barrister Ali Zafar Khan has raised serious concerns, alleging that the nomination papers of their candidates are being forcibly seized and torn.<\/p>\n

Read more: Toshakhana reference against Imran, Bushra fixed for hearing on Dec 23<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Analysts have voiced their apprehensions about the unfolding situation, with some describing it as unprecedented and unjust.<\/p>\n

Speaking on Express TV’s programme “Experts,” analyst Ayaz Khan expressed concern over the alleged interference in the electoral process.<\/p>\n

“This is the first time in the history of the country that nomination papers are being snatched and torn. Everything was managed so well before,\u201d he remarked<\/p>\n

Ayaz questioned the fairness of the electoral playing field and suggested that Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa faces a significant test in ensuring a level playing field.<\/p>\n

Chief Editor of The Express Tribune, Naveed Hussain, decried the perceived lack of free and fair elections in Pakistan’s history, labelling it as a tragedy for the democratic process.<\/p>\n

“I have never seen such blatant interference as this time. The first and second-tier leadership of PTI were put in jails; some were forced to do press conferences and some left the political party. Now, the third and lower-tier leadership, who want to contest elections, are being raided in their homes. I think there is a fear that Imran Khan does not want to leave the country by making any deal,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n

Also read: Imran to contest polls from three constituencies, says Gohar<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Naveed Hussain voiced concern that conducting the election under the current circumstances could lead to a recurrence of the political turbulence witnessed in the three years following the 2018 election, creating a parallel situation post the 2024 election.<\/p>\n

Analyst Amir Ilyas Rana urged clarity from key figures within PTI regarding their objections, specifically mentioning Barrister Ali Zafar, Aitzaz Ahsan, and Latif Khosa.<\/p>\n

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Amir highlighted the potential challenge to Imran Khan’s candidacy if his sentence remains unresolved. He expressed hope that, as the election campaign progresses, a fair and level playing field would be established for all parties involved.<\/p>\n

Faysal Husain, the Bureau Chief of Express TV, speculated on Imran Khan’s perspective, suggesting that the former prime minister views the establishment as the centre of power in Pakistan.<\/p>\n

Faysal expressed concerns that Imran Khan might not be permitted to contest the elections, emphasising the potential adverse effects on both the electoral process and the subsequent government’s performance.<\/p>\n

Analyst Mohammad Ilyas called for the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to address PTI’s allegations, urging transparency and accountability.<\/p>\n

He stressed the need for a level playing field, stating that denying Imran Khan the opportunity to contest the elections could undermine the legitimacy of the results.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n