The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has officially communicated with Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja. They allege the arrest of their supporters in Lahore’s NA-127 constituency, a critical battleground in the upcoming February 8 elections. PPP Secretary General Taj Haider authored the letter, claiming that these arrests by Punjab Police have instilled fear among constituents.
The letter details the arrests of PTI workers Shahbaz and Shahzad following their defection to PPP. Additionally, it highlights former PML-N counselor Khalida Parveen’s arrest, allegedly for supporting PPP. According to the letter, police cited an older case as the reason for Parveen’s detention.
Demand for Action and Fair Play
Haider mentioned unsuccessful attempts by PPP’s Zulfiqar Badar to secure the release of these activists. He expressed concerns over escalating ‘fascist measures’ and urged the CEC to ensure the freedom of PPP supporters. He also called for action against those responsible for these alleged intimidations.
The context of these allegations is the candidacy of PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto Zardari from NA-127 Lahore. Bilawal, the party’s prime ministerial nominee, faces competition from PML-N leader Shaista Pervaiz Malik and a PTI-backed candidate. These developments add to the high-stakes atmosphere of the upcoming electoral contest in NA-127.
