Pakistan Election Official admits rigging during 2024 elections, resigns from post

Rawalpindi Commissioner Liaquat Ali Chattha resigned from his post, citing electoral irregularities and rigging. He made this announcement during a press conference held at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Chattha admitted to facilitating rigging in the Rawalpindi Division, expressing remorse for his actions and taking responsibility for the injustice done to the people.

Chattha confesses to rigging and alleges electoral fraud

During the press conference, Chattha confessed to manipulating election results, claiming to have converted losing candidates into winners with a margin of 50,000 votes. He apologized to the returning officers and revealed the pressure he faced from social media and overseas Pakistanis. Additionally, Chattha alleged that election staff are still affixing fake stamps on ballot papers. He even admitted to attempting suicide due to the guilt and pressure he experienced.

ALSO READ: Indonesia prepares for World's largest single-day election with over 200 million Voters

Government denies allegations and refuses protest permission

In response to Chattha's allegations, Caretaker Information Minister Amir Mir rejected them, labeling them as an attempt to discredit the elections. Mir dismissed Chattha's claims and questioned the timing of his statements, suggesting a political motive behind them. Meanwhile, the Islamabad Deputy Commissioner refused to grant permission for protests organized by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) against alleged rigging. The administration cited Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) as the reason for denying permission for demonstrations, urging citizens to avoid participating in political gatherings.

ALSO READ: 2024 Pakistan Election update: independent candidate supported by Imran Khan aligns with Nawaz Sharif faction