The by-elections on 21 national and provincial seats were a déjà vu for many. The clean sweep that the PML-N was able to register, however, has once again come with serious misgivings. The opposition, PTI, has cried foul, and there is no dearth of incidents on the fateful day to point out at rigging, ballot-stuffing and high-handedness, coupled with suspension of cellular services in the polling constituencies. A clash in Narowal claimed a life amidst multiple incidents of violence in Punjab and Balochistan.
A major outcome of the ballot is that PML-N has consolidated its position in the Punjab Assembly with 10 new MPAs, and posted two more to its coalition strength in the National Assembly. The PPP, likewise, managed to retain both its seats from Sindh. Consolation wins for PTI, ANP, BNP and the minion, Istehkam Party, has done the necessary window-dressing to close the chapter of the contested and divisive February 8 general elections.
Conventionally, by-elections are a piece of cake for dispensations in power, and the same trend was witnessed this time too. The walkover for PML-N was fait accompli. But political pundits beg to differ and try to relate the outcome to the contrast of electioneering vigour that the PTI posted across Punjab, notwithstanding the odds in its way. The PML-N did not meticulously opt for canvassing and was seen playing to the gallery in terms of projecting its image from the corridors of power. Similarly, in Bajaur, the victory of an independent candidate was on the cards, and the likewise dovetailing of ANP and BNP was irresistible.
Sunday’s vote once again posted claims and counter-claims on Form 45 and 47 veracity, and this is an issue that needs to be settled in de jure terms. Resourcing to public mandate, unfortunately, has not bred the desired results in terms of ushering in stability. The country and the electorates are in the grip of uncertainty, and this aspect must be addressed. Keeping aside the outcome of the vote, it’s time to mend the fences on political lines.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 23rd, 2024.
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