Supervisor Elham AbolFateh
Editor in Chief Mohamed Wadie

Pakistan Defends Electoral Integrity Amidst International Scrutiny


Sat 10 Feb 2024 | 01:59 PM
H-Tayea

In the wake of the general elections held on February 8, 2024, Pakistan has issued a strong response to international criticisms concerning the electoral process. Officials expressed surprise at the negative comments from certain countries and organizations, pointing out that these critiques fail to appreciate the electoral process's complexities and the enthusiastic participation of millions of Pakistani voters.

Critics of the electoral process have been accused of disregarding the peaceful and successful conduct of the general elections amidst significant security challenges, many of which are attributed to foreign-sponsored terrorism. Pakistani officials also refuted claims of a nationwide internet shutdown during the elections, clarifying that only mobile services were temporarily suspended to prevent potential terrorist activities on polling day. This move, they assert, was a necessary precaution and did not impede the electoral process.

The recent elections in Pakistan are part of the country's ongoing efforts to foster a stable and democratic society. While Pakistan welcomes constructive feedback, officials have stated that premature and negative assessments of the electoral process are neither helpful nor fair. They emphasize that Pakistan's commitment to democracy and periodic elections is driven by the aspirations of its citizens and the principles laid out by the nation's founding fathers, rather than external pressures or critiques.

With every election and peaceful transition of power, Pakistan believes it is moving closer to achieving a vibrant democratic state. This recent electoral exercise, according to Pakistani officials, has proven that many of the concerns voiced by commentators were unfounded and that the nation remains steadfast in its journey towards democracy.