Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has issued a clarification regarding his remarks on the NA-18 by-poll, following the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) request for army deployment due to perceived threats against public officials.
The ECP sought the deployment of army and civil armed forces for the by-polls, citing CM Afridi’s use of “provocative language” against district administration, police officers, and ECP officials engaged with the by-elections.
- CM Afridi’s remarks were made during a political gathering speech at Chamba on Wednesday, where he warned against rigging and urged voters to support the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in the upcoming by-election.
- The ECP drew attention to CM Afridi’s speech, alleging that he “clearly threatened” officials and used offensive language that may prevent them from performing their duties.
- CM Afridi claimed his remarks were “taken out of context” and that he was not campaigning for anybody, but rather emphasizing the need for fair elections.
- The PTI leader also expressed concerns about being denied access to party founder Imran Khan, despite repeated requests to the federal and provincial governments.
ECP Requests for Army Deployment
The ECP’s request for army deployment is aimed at ensuring the security and integrity of the by-elections, scheduled to take place on November 23.
The electoral body’s concerns are linked to CM Afridi’s speech, which allegedly created a threatening environment for election officials and voters.
CM Afridi’s Response to ECP Concerns
CM Afridi stated that his remarks were “not a threat, but a warning against rigging”, and that he was committed to ensuring fair and transparent elections.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa By-Election Controversy
The upcoming by-election has been marred by controversy, with the PTI fielding Shehrnaz Khan, wife of former National Assembly opposition leader Omar Ayub, as its candidate.
CM Afridi’s warnings against rigging have added to the tensions, with the ECP seeking to ensure that the elections are conducted in a fair and peaceful manner.
For more information on this developing story, visit Watan News for updates and analysis.
