Pakistan’s upcoming elections have been marred by tragedy as two blasts near electoral candidates’ offices in the Balochistan province claimed the lives of 22 people. With rising militant attacks and the imprisonment of Imran Khan, the winner of the last national election, Pakistan finds itself in a precarious position. Despite economic difficulties and other challenges, the nuclear-armed country is determined to hold a successful election.
Security concerns have been raised in light of these attacks, prompting authorities to increase security measures at polling booths. The first attack occurred at the office of an independent candidate in Pishin district, resulting in 12 casualties. The second blast, near an office of Jamiat Ulema Islam (JUI) in Qilla Saifullah, targeted a religious party that has previously been attacked by militants.
The perpetrators behind these attacks remain unidentified. However, various groups such as the Pakistani Taliban and separatist groups from Balochistan, who oppose the Pakistani state, have been responsible for recent attacks. The death toll from the Pishin explosion stands at 12, with more than two dozen injured. Jumma Dad Khan, the Deputy Commissioner of Pishin district, reported that numerous individuals were hurt in the blast.
These incidents occurred during the quiet period mandated by electoral rules, just one day before the election. Former Pakistani premier Imran Khan, who is currently in jail, urged his supporters to wait peacefully outside polling booths after casting their votes. This call comes as rival political parties held large rallies to mark the end of the campaign period. Khan’s supporters, who claim a military-backed crackdown on him and his party, are concerned about tensions escalating if they gather near booths.
Despite these challenges, political parties are pushing forward with their campaigns. Nawaz Sharif, the frontrunner in the elections, led a massive rally in Kasur. Sharif called on the country’s youth to support his party and criticized Khan, who has previously garnered support from young voters. Meanwhile, supporters of the Pakistan People’s Party gathered in Larkana under the leadership of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the son of assassinated Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. Zardari has criticized opponents, including Sharif, for compromising the country’s security and economy during their tenures.
As Pakistan braces itself for the upcoming elections, security concerns loom large. The recent blasts in Balochistan highlight the challenges the country faces in ensuring a peaceful electoral process. With the rising threat of militant attacks and the imprisonment of prominent politicians, Pakistan must navigate these turbulent times to secure a stable and prosperous future.
