Editorial
The recent by-election in PP-52 Sambrial, Sialkot, has once again underlined the urgent need for free, fair, and transparent electoral processes in Pakistan. While the PML-N’s Hina Arshad Warraich won with a considerable margin, allegations of rigging from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) cast a shadow over the integrity of the electoral exercise. This is not just a party-level dispute; it raises serious concerns about public trust in democratic institutions.
In any democracy, elections are not just about votes—they are about legitimacy. If political parties and citizens do not trust election results, the mandate of the elected representatives becomes questionable, weakening governance and creating long-term instability. In the PP-52 case, PTI has alleged the expulsion of polling agents and discrepancies between Form-45s provided to agents and those released by the Returning Officer. If such claims hold weight, they must be addressed through proper legal channels, backed by documentary evidence and due process.
However, the burden of proof lies with the complainants. PTI must consolidate its polling station-level Form-45s, compare them with the official RO data, and highlight discrepancies with accuracy. Mere allegations, without documentation and legal follow-through, cannot change outcomes nor strengthen electoral credibility.
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) must also fulfill its constitutional responsibility. Transparent elections are its foremost obligation. Ensuring that every step of the electoral process—from polling to result compilation—is verifiable and accountable is essential to public confidence.
Pakistan cannot afford repeated electoral controversies. It is time to institutionalize transparency, digitalize results management, and empower independent observers. Only then can elections truly reflect the will of the people—and restore faith in democratic governance. The PP-52 by-election should serve as a lesson, not a precedent.
