ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has claimed that efforts are underway to manipulate election results in Gilgit-Baltistan, raising concerns over transparency in the electoral process.
Senior PPP leader Qamar Zaman Kaira said that the public and party leadership are fully aware of developments across Gilgit-Baltistan. He alleged that results in seats won by the party were being withheld and that orders for repeated recounts—up to three times—were issued in an attempt to alter outcomes.
Kaira stated that history shows “who is responsible for changing results,” adding that while political leadership had initially extended congratulations, some ministers and local representatives were allegedly involved in efforts to influence result manipulation.
He further said the party believes in political restraint but will assert its right where necessary. According to him, the PPP’s objections led to the issuance of Form 49, whereas Forms 46 and 47 processes were allegedly being prepared in a manner that could have affected the outcome.
The PPP leader also claimed that audio statements from returning officers (ROs) and instructions regarding withholding results exist, and that the party secured clear victories in 12 constituencies in Gilgit-Baltistan. However, results for two constituencies remain withheld, and questions have been raised about the legal basis for ordering re-polling in certain polling stations.
Kaira maintained that repeated recount orders in already won seats amount to an attempt to change election results. The Pakistan Peoples Party continues to demand transparency and resolution of its concerns regarding the disputed constituencies.
