ISLAMABAD: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Vice President Senator Sherry Rehman on Tuesday urged transparency as the PPP emerged strong in the Gilgit-Baltistan elections. She congratulated the party’s successful candidates, workers, and supporters on the party’s impressive performance in the polls.
Leadership Praised
Senator Rehman paid tribute to PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari for their dynamic leadership and effective public outreach campaign, which played a pivotal role in securing the party’s success.
“The people of Gilgit-Baltistan have rejected the politics of division and hatred and have voted for the agenda of development, democracy, and public service,” Senator Rehman said in a statement.
Endorsement of Bhutto Legacy
She said the election results reflect the people’s endorsement of the democratic, progressive, and people-centric vision of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. “The outcome is also a reaffirmation of the democratic ideals and public struggle of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, whose vision continues to inspire the people,” she added.
Senator Rehman said that the PPP remains committed to fulfilling the expectations of the people and will work with renewed determination for the development, prosperity, and progress of Gilgit-Baltistan.
Concerns Over Irregularities
Expressing concern over alleged irregularities in certain constituencies, Senator Sherry Rehman called for transparency in the electoral process. She noted that reports of delays and results allegedly inconsistent with public opinion in GBLA-16, GBLA-17, and GBLA-20 have raised serious questions regarding electoral transparency.
“Concerns regarding alleged electoral manipulation are not only being raised by the Pakistan Peoples Party but have also been highlighted in media reports,” she said. Senator Rehman emphasized that unexplained delays and ambiguities in constituencies where the PPP enjoyed clear public support have further deepened concerns.
“Any interference in the electoral process amounts to a violation of the democratic rights of the people and undermines the sanctity of the vote,” she stated.
Demand for Action
She urged the Election Commission to immediately announce the pending results in a transparent manner and take all necessary measures to restore public confidence. Senator Rehman also called upon the Chief Election Commissioner to take immediate notice of the situation and ensure that all concerns regarding the electoral process are addressed.
“Those responsible for undermining public trust must be held accountable in accordance with the law,” she said. “The people of Gilgit-Baltistan have delivered their verdict through the ballot box. That verdict must be respected and upheld under all circumstances,” Senator Rehman concluded.
