Political Turmoil in Pakistan: Allegations of Fraud, Delayed Results, and Impending Presidential Election

Amid recent elections in Pakistan, the country has responded strongly to allegations of irregularities, particularly in the context of foreign interference, notably from the United States. The spokesperson for Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated on Friday that Pakistan would not bow down to orders from any foreign country, asserting its sovereignty and independence.

The controversy surrounds the scrutiny demanded by the United States regarding irregularities in the general elections held on February 8. The spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baluch, emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to addressing internal matters independently. Responding to comments from her American counterpart, Matthew Miller, earlier in the week, Baluch stated, “We firmly believe in our sovereign right to decide on internal matters concerning Pakistan.

The comments come at a time when allegations of electoral fraud and manipulation have been raised, particularly by former Prime Minister Imran Khan, currently in jail. The Election Commission of Pakistan, after an unprecedented delay, announced the election results. Additionally, the dates for the presidential election have been declared, with voting scheduled for March 9. The former president, Asif Ali Zardari, is poised to become president almost 11 years after his last term.

While the current president’s term has officially ended, Dr. Arif Alvi remains in office as a new electoral commission has not yet been constituted. The electoral process is set to commence with candidate nominations in Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, and Quetta on Saturday, and official scrutiny of the nominations is scheduled for March 4.

The unfolding political events in Pakistan are closely watched, and the government’s firm response to external scrutiny underscores its commitment to handling internal affairs independently and transparently.