The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has decided to postpone the by-election in PP-269 Muzaffargarh, originally scheduled for May 18, following a directive from the Islamabad High Court.
This decision comes in response to various circumstances, including the unfortunate passing of Muhammad Iqbal Khan, a candidate for the by-poll, who succumbed to injuries sustained in a recent accident at Nishtar Hospital in Multan.
It’s important to clarify that Muhammad Iqbal Khan, who passed away, should not be confused with Muhammad Iqbal Khan Pattafi. Earlier, there was an assertion from the Returning Officer (RO), Nasir Shahzad Dogar, suggesting that the candidate’s demise wouldn’t affect the election timetable. However, the ECP’s decision now overrides that stance.
The vacancy in PP-269 arose from the sudden resignation of PPP candidate Alamdar Abbas Qureshi, seemingly to avoid a recount of ballots prompted by a petition from the runner-up candidate, Iqbal Pitafi. In response, the PPP has again nominated Alamdar Qureshi, with support from PML-N, while SIC-PTI is fielding Mr. Pitafi.
Overall, 18 candidates are vying for the seat. This postponement underscores the complex dynamics at play in Muzaffargarh’s political landscape, where electoral processes are subject to legal interventions and candidate actions. The decision reflects the ECP’s commitment to ensuring fair and transparent elections, even amidst unforeseen events and legal challenges.
As the by-elections in PP-269 are rescheduled, stakeholders and voters await further instructions from the ECP regarding the new polling date and any necessary adjustments to the electoral process.
