Imran calls for nullifying NA-240 by-poll

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman Imran Khan Sunday called upon the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to nullify the recent bye-election in Karachi NA-240 constituency, ‘marred by low turnout and violence’.

To this effect, he presided over a meeting of PTI’s political committee here, which took stock of the latest political situation and its future options against the incumbent government. Sindh PTI President Ali Haider Zaidi presented a detailed report on the by-election in NA-240 to the committee.

The forum expressed deep concern over the Election Commission's capacity and ability to conduct peaceful, free and transparent bye-election in just one constituency. It recommended to the ECP to completely nullify the NA-240 by-election.

Speaking on the occasion, PTI chairman alleged the ECP performance in holding clean and transparent election in NA-240 was disappointing while only 8 percent turnout is largely an expression of disinterest in the election process by the people.

“The ECP decision not to nullify election despite extraordinary reports of violence and fraud is surprising, whereas it put aside Daska bye-poll despite 40 percent turnout. The ECP double standards in decision-making raises serious questions over its role,” he contended.

He asked the ECP to nullify by-election and issue schedule for re-election.