Pakistan election results 2024 — Independents dominate polls as results trickle in following hours-long delay
First lady hosts FASP magnolia chapter meeting, design competition held
ISLAMABAD, /DNA/ – On 24th January, 2024, FASP Magnolia Chapter’s General Body Meeting was held at the Presidency. The First Lady, Mrs Samina Alvi very graciously hosted the occasion.
A competition titled, “Imposed Class” was arranged. The members were divided into two categories, Novice and Experienced. The same props and plant material was provided to the contestants and they were asked to create their own designs.
Nusrat Bilal, Shaista Khawar, Wiqarunnisa Boolani and Aisha Zahid were the esteemed judges. The competition ended in one hour and the formal meeting started with Farah Khursheed’s welcoming words.
The President, Wiqarunnisa Boolani appreciated everyone’s efforts and thanked, the First Lady, Mrs Samina Alvi for taking the time out from her busy schedule and hosting the event. Two of the judges, Aisha Zahid and Shaista Khawar were then invited on the stage to express their views.
The following results were announced by the President, Wiqarunnisa Boolani.
For Experienced Category:
1st: Ghazala Abdullah
2nd: Huma Ehsan
3rd: Nahida Raza
Very Highly Commended: Sadia Amir
Highly Commended: Faiezah Shahid
Commended: Nageen Malik
For Novice Category:
1st: Samina Tariq
2nd: Farah Khursheed
3rd: Shakila Khalil
Very Highly Commended: Faheema Yusuf
Highly Commended: Shazia Imran
Commended: Nazneen Malik Dad
The First Lady delivered the prizes to the winners. A small token of love was given to the honourable judges and the birthday girls.
The meeting ended on a cheerful note with the guests enjoying the delicacies.
Amnesty slams Pakistan’s internet shutdown as ‘blunt attack on people’s rights’
KARACHI: Amnesty International has slammed the internet shutdown and suspension of the cellular service on election day in Pakistan as a “reckless attack on people’s rights”.
“The decision to suspend telecommunications and mobile internet services on an election day is a blunt attack on the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly,” Livia Saccardi, Interim Deputy Director for South Asia at Amnesty International, said in a post on the micro-blogging site “X”, formerly called Twitter.
“It is reckless to impede access to information as people head out to polling stations on the heels of devastating bomb blasts and what has been an intense crackdown on the opposition in the lead up to the elections in the country,” Saccardi added.
Read more: Naya or Purana Pakistan
Amnesty International calls on the authorities of Pakistan to adopt a rights-respecting approach and urgently lift all blanket restrictions on access to the internet. “Unwarranted restrictions on dissemination of information, despite reassurances to the contrary from the Pakistan Telecommunications Authority and Election Commission of Pakistan, are in breach of people’s human rights at this critical time in Pakistan,” Saccardi stated.
“Blanket shutdowns impacts people’s mobility, livelihood and ability to navigate through a difficult time further undermining their trust in authorities. Amnesty International calls on the authorities of Pakistan to adopt a rights-respecting approach and urgently lift all blanket restrictions on access to the internet to enable people’s access to timely information and report on any election-related matter throughout the polling process.”
Also read: Election day deals: Vote and avail discounts at all these eateries
Meanwhile, Access Now, the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), and the #KeepItOn coalition also strongly condemn the caretaker government’s suspension of mobile services across the country, and demanded that full internet access be reinstated immediately.
“With millions of people in Pakistan relying on the internet for essential information needed to cast their vote, the government’s disproportionate action jeopardises democracy. People’s right to freely and fairly choose their elected representatives must be safeguarded,” it said in a statement.
PRCS Strengthens Emergency Response for General Election 2024
ISLAMABAD: /DNA/ – In support of government efforts to manage emergencies, the Pakistan Red Crescent Society has strategically positioned advanced ambulances, trained responders, and first aid personnel near polling stations nationwide to ensure swift response to any unexpected incidents during the General Election 2024. Additionally, a comprehensive emergency response plan has been formalized, with skilled personnel appointed at various locations in major cities. Collaborating with all relief agencies, the Pakistan Red Crescent Society remains steadfast in its commitment to fulfilling its duties during emergencies.
Volunteer teams were also dispatched to hospitals across the country to facilitate blood donations in anticipation of potential adverse situations. The Regional Blood Donor Center in Islamabad has maintained an adequate supply of blood units to address emergencies.
Sardar Shahid Ahmed Laghari, Chairman of the Pakistan Red Crescent Society, underscored, “The Red Crescent has consistently stood by the nation. Our Emergency Response Teams (ERTs) have demonstrated exemplary dedication, while trained personnel have shown readiness by diligently performing their duties, emphasizing that peace, security, and impartial humanitarian aid are fundamental to our mission.”
Chairman Laghari further stated that PRCS Blood Donor Volunteers are on high alert, stationed at various hospitals nationwide not only to facilitate blood donations but also to provide immediate assistance to dedicated health teams working tirelessly in hospitals.
Emergency Response Teams were established in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Merged Areas formerly known as FATA, Balochistan, Sindh, and Punjab. Nearly 80 trained members and 27 new ambulances were allocated for emergency response in major cities. The National Headquarters continues to efficiently operate the 24/7 Control Room, closely collaborating with district administrations and participating in mutual consultations for the appointment of Emergency Response Teams.
As part of the Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) initiative, PRCS remains steadfast in its commitment to further enhance readiness for emergency response and crisis situations throughout the country in an effective manner.
Elections 2024: Nawaz Sharif wants majority from voters, rules out coalition govt idea
Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif—who has been termed as the king of a comeback by BBC—cast his vote at Government Junior Model High School Model Town, Lahore at NA-128.
Nawaz Sharif talking to a media person after casting his vote urged people to leave their homes. He vowed PML-N will combat the culture of “abuse” and indecency, adding that the party will also combat inflation and work for the people.
Nawaz Sharif categorically said: “Don’t mention the name of the coalition government. One party should get a full mandate.”
“There is no doubt in Maryam’s struggle,” Nawaz Sharif commented on the political struggle of the PMLN Chief Organizer Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
“We are seeing this day today by making sacrifices,” Nawaz Sharif highlighted his political struggle during his self-exile period in London.
PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif has urged people to get out and exercise their right to vote, specifically for his party.
Voters, Institutions Applauded: PM recognizes collective effort for fair election
ISLAMABAD, Feb 8 /DNA/ – Prime Minister Anwaar ul Haq Kakar thanked and congratulated the nation on successful conduct of General Elections-2024.
He said, I appreciate the efforts of Election Commission of Pakistan, Interim Provincial Governments, Armed Forces, Civil Armed Forces, Police, law enforcement agencies, election staff, media and all those institutions and individuals who contributed to the conduct of the free and fair elections.
This momentous occasion is not just a testament to the resilience and strength of our democratic processes but also to the indomitable spirit of the Pakistani people.
The participation and enthusiasm of people of Pakistan have been the cornerstone of this democratic exercise. The high voter turnout is a clear indication of public commitment to shaping the future of our country. The voices, expressed through the votes, will contribute to the fortification of our democracy, and for that, people of Pakistan deserve every bit of appreciation.
Despite few incidents of terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan the efforts of Armed Forces, Civil Armed Forces, LEAs, Civilian Administration and Election Commission of Pakistan for conducting free and fair election across the country are commendable. Their unwavering commitment to their duties has been instrumental in the smooth conduct of the elections.
In the face of adversity, the people of Pakistan have shown remarkable courage and determination. Your resolve in the aftermath of the recent terrorism incidents, continuing to participate in the electoral process, is a powerful statement against the forces that seek to destabilize our nation. It underscores our collective desire for peace, stability, and prosperity.
Once again, I congratulate the nation on this historic achievement. May this election be a harbinger of a brighter, more prosperous future for Pakistan.
Pakistan election results 2024 — voting ends, counting begins
Pakistan election results 2024 — voting ends, counting begins.
Polling has concluded across Pakistan at 5pm, in an election marred by connectivity issues after the government suspended mobile and internet connectivity.
There were multiple reports of voting process facing delays at certain polling stations across the country and at least one terror attack on security forces performing security duties.
LAHORE – The polling time for much-awaited Pakistan General Elections 2024 has come to an end. However, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) extended polling time for certain polling stations due to long queues of the voters.
The voting process for general elections 2024 at 8:00 am across Pakistan and continued till 5:00 pm without any break amid security threats.
Candidates and Voters
A total of 5,121 candidates are contesting elections for 265 seats of the National Assembly. These include 4807 male, 312 female and two transgender.
12,965 candidates, including including 12123 male, 570 women and two transgender, are in the race for the seats of the four provincial assemblies
The data compiled by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) shows total number of registered voters standing at 128,585,760.
Polling Stations
EP has established 90,777 polling stations across the country. Of these, 44,000 polling stations have been declared normal, 29,985 sensitive, and 16,766 as highly sensitive.
Major Parties Contesting Elections
PML-N, PPP, JI, JUI-F, ANP, MQM-P are among the major parties contesting election 2024. However, Imran Khan’s PTI is not on the ballot paper as it has lost its electoral symbol, bat, over flawed party elections.
Security Measures
The government has deployed about 650,000 security personnel on the ground to ensure the security of the voters on the election day.
The security officials include the personnel of police, civil armed forces and the armed forces. Under a three tiered system, the personnel of the armed forces will perform duties outside the polling stations.
In the federal capital, police personnel have taken positions at the polling stations and they will stay there overnight.
Security Threats
A day earlier, twin blasts rocked Balochistan’s Qila Saifullh and Pishin claiming lives of about two dozen people. The elections office of the independent candidate, Asfandyar Kakar, in PB-47 and JUI-F were targeted in the attack.
A hand grenade attack also took place in Mastung where a school was targeted. However, no causality was reported in this explosion.
CEC Issues Directives for Foolproof Security
Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja has directed authorities to make necessary deployments to ensure foolproof security of voters in the country.
He conveyed these instructions to all four provincial chief secretaries and the Inspectors General of police over the phone.
Additionally, the Chief Election Commissioner also directed to ensure protection of the offices of District Returning Officers and Returning Officers.
Borders Closed
Pakistan has closed its border crossings with Afghanistan and Iran for both cargo and pedestrians as part of security measures during the general elections.
Foreign Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch announced it in a statement, adding that normal operations would resume on Friday.
Voter Slip for Elections 2024
A voter slip makes it easy for the people to find their polling station and cast their votes smoothly. The voters can get their voter slips for the upcoming general elections 2024 in Pakistan by using a couple of ways.
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in collaboration with NADRA provides SMS service for the public to facilitate the eligible voters to check their registration status. Public can get the information by entering CNIC number and sending the text message to the number 8300. An automated response will be received in this regard with the name of electoral area, block code and serial number.
Pakistan Election 2024 Predictions
As the Imran Khan has been detained in jail for months in various cases, the two major contesting political parties are PML-N and PPP in the country.
Both parties ran extensive election campaigns to woo the voters so they can make government in Center.
Predictions made by various sections suggest that PML-N would be leading party in the election. However, they predicted that the Nawaz Sharif’s party would not get clear majority as it has to make alliances to form the government in Centre.
The PML-N is expected to form government in Punjab province also as its main rival PTI has been facing legal woes with its founder Imran Khan languishing in prison.
What is WhatsApp Number of ECP for Complaints?
The ECP has introduced an active WhatsApp helpline, enabling citizens to register their election-related complaints swiftly.
The WhatsApp number for ECP is ‘0327 5050610’. The service aims to enhance accessibility and responsiveness in addressing concerns regarding elections.
Apart from WhatsApp, the complaints can be submitted through email at [email protected], or the dedicated helpline 111-327-000.
When and Where to Check Election Results 2024?
The mainstream media would start reporting the unofficial and unverified results as the counting process begins after 5pm. However, the ECP is likely to announced unofficial results on Feb 9, 2024 in the country.
Biological Security, AI in militaries discussed in Pakistan-Russia strategic dialogue
ISLAMABAD, Feb 8 /DNA/ – The 14th round of Pakistan-Russia Consultative Group on Strategic Stability was held under the chairmanship of Additional Foreign Secretary (Arms Control and Disarmament) Mohammad Kamran Akhtar and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs S.A. Ryabkov
The parties had an in-depth exchange of views on international security and regional stability challenges, as well as on various aspects of arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation.
The two sides discussed issues related to the agenda of the First Committee of the UN General Assembly, the Conference on Disarmament, the IAEA and the OPCW. The issues concerning biological, space and international information security, as well as new and emerging technologies, including the military use of artificial intelligence, came under discussion at length.
The two sides expressed satisfaction on the similarity of views on range of issues of global strategic stability, regional security including matters related to arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation.
Readiness was expressed to continue close coordination at relevant international platforms. Moreover, the importance of regular meetings of the Consultative Group was also emphasized.
It was agreed to hold the 15th meeting of the Group next year in Islamabad.
India’s religious & economic transformation challenging Pakistan
Mamoon Azeem
India finds itself at a pivotal juncture with the recent passage of a bill in Uttarakhand, a northern state governed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s BJP, proposing a Uniform Civil Code (UCC). This code aims to replace religion-specific civil laws with a standardized set applicable to all, challenging the current diverse legal frameworks that vary across religions.
The Uniform Civil Code has been a longstanding constitutional recommendation with the idea of a unified set of rules for all citizens. The recent provisions under the new law include the banning of polygamy, setting minimum marriage ages, prohibiting marriage among close relatives, and ensuring equal inheritance rights for sons and daughters. It also attempts to regulate live-in relationships, sparking debates on personal freedom versus government intervention.
However, the move has faced opposition, primarily from the Muslim community, the largest minority in India, constituting over 14% of the population. Critics argue that the UCC infringes upon religious practices, particularly polygamy, deeply rooted in Islamic law. Additionally, tribal groups have voiced their dissent, emphasizing the need to respect the diverse cultural fabric of the country.
The introduction of the UCC aligns with the broader transformation underway in India. The BJP, under Modi’s leadership, is steering the country towards a Hindu Rashtra, as evident in the implementation of Hindutva-driven policies. The construction of the Ram temple and the abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir’s autonomy were other significant promises fulfilled by the BJP, underscoring the party’s Hindu-centric agenda.
The political landscape is shifting as India experiences rapid economic growth, becoming the world’s fifth-largest economy. The growing influence of Hindutva not only impacts the social and religious freedoms of minorities but also signals a more assertive approach to regional geopolitics. The annexation of Kashmir and India’s assertive stance on the world stage reflect this shift.
In light of these developments, Pakistan must adopt a nuanced and strategic approach to safeguard its interests. India’s economic prowess and military capabilities pose significant challenges, requiring a balanced strategy that avoids both appeasement and high-risk confrontations.
India’s trajectory, marked by the intersection of religious transformation, economic growth, and geopolitical assertiveness, demands careful consideration and proactive measures from Pakistan. The evolving dynamics in the region necessitate a careful and critical evaluation of Pakistan’s policies, militarily, economically and politically. Pakistan shot itself in the foot by segregating the militaristic dimension from the economy and internal politics from day one. If our policymakers are serious about countering India, they must start by decreasing the political temperature and work on resolving the political polarization in society.
President Alvi casts vote along with family
ISLAMABAD, Feb 8: President of Pakistan Dr. Arif Alvi Thursday reached the polling station to cast his vote. Turning to social media platform X, President of Pakistan said: “The Islamic Republic of Pakistan has asked for your personal advice through your vote to elect representatives to the National & Provincial Assemblies”.
It is therefore your Islamic, constitutional and civic responsibility, he stated.
‘We as a family reached our polling station, stood in line and have voted and urge all of you to come out and exercise your right,’ stated Atif Alvi.
He continued to say that Pakistan needs your opinion as never before.
The Islamic Republic of Pakistan has asked for your personal advice through your vote to elect representatives to the National & Provincial Assemblies. It is therefore your Islamic, constitutional and civic responsibility. We as a family reached our polling station, stood in… pic.twitter.com/ngPnj5jaxv
— Dr. Arif Alvi (@ArifAlvi) February 8, 2024
While in the same post, the President of Pakistan Dr. Arif Alvi and his family can also be seen standing at the polling station.
