Public’s poll participation reflects confidence in Imran: PTI

Says Imran remained committed steadfast to constitutional principles, legality, and democratic norms

LAHORE:

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has expressed gratitude to the people for “actively participating” in the electoral process.

In a joint statement on Thursday, PTI Chief Organiser Umar Ayub Khan and Parliamentary Leader in Senate Barrister Ali Zafar conveyed appreciation on behalf of Imran, who is currently detained in Addiala Jail.

Observing that the state entities had caused “notable interference” and “pre-election manipulation”, they hailed the PTI founding chairman, saying Imran Khan remained committed “steadfast” to constitutional principles, legality, and democratic norms, setting a new benchmark for Pakistan.

They acknowledged delays and disruptions at polling stations in various constituencies, particularly in Karachi, and attributed them to external factors hindering the voting process.

Nevertheless, despite formidable challenges, the populace has shown unwavering confidence in Imran Khan's vision for genuine freedom through their votes, asserted Umar Ayub Khan and Barrister Ali Zafar.

Both the leaders underscored optimistic preliminary results, with PTI candidates “leading convincingly in several constituencies. However, concerns have been raised regarding a noticeable slowdown in the announcement of final results, alongside reports of screen closures at returning officers' offices in several areas, the statement read.

Warning against undermining the people's mandate through clandestine maneuvers, Umar Ayub Khan and Barrister Ali Zafar emphasised the potential dire consequences of such actions.

Without naming Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif, the PTI maintained that a “failed fugitive” had returned under “state patronage” through the London plan to secure victory in both contested seats along with his party's broader electoral setback.

Stressing people’s rejection of any attempt to fabricate victory through behind-the-scenes schemes, Umar Ayub Khan and Barrister Ali Zafar urged PTI workers to remain steadfast and focused solely on securing verified election results.

They advised candidates and workers not to vacate polling stations without obtaining duly signed and stamped Form 45 or leave returning officers' offices without acquiring certified Form 47.

Umar Ayub Khan and Barrister Ali Zafar urged the Election Commission of Pakistan to promptly release the results, rather than allowing any “irregularities to influence the electoral outcome”.

Expressing confidence in the “overwhelming support” of the people and anticipating significant success, they reiterated their commitment to establishing a democratically elected government, leading to the release of Imran Khan from detention and his ascension to the prime ministership