Political Activities
As the nation approaches the general elections scheduled for February 8, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Governor Ghulam Ali acknowledges the difficulty of conducting political activities in certain parts of KP and Balochistan due to the prevailing security situation. The regions have witnessed an increase in terror activities, particularly after the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan terminated its ceasefire with the government in November last year.
Data released by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) reveals a 34% surge in anti-state violence in the country last month. KP emerged as the most affected province, documenting 51 attacks resulting in 54 fatalities and 81 injuries. Similarly, Balochistan recorded nine attacks with 18 fatalities, including 15 security forces personnel and three civilians.
In an interview on the program ‘Doosra Rukh’ on Saturday, Governor Ghulam Ali acknowledged the unfavorable security situation in areas like Tank, Dera Ismail Khan, Lakki Marwat, and Bannu. He emphasized that while general elections might proceed in these areas, conducting political activities remains challenging. The governor stressed the government’s duty to ensure the safety of voters on their way to the ballot box.
Responding to queries about presenting the situation to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), Ghulam Ali stated that it is the responsibility of the provincial government and institutions to devise a strategy for the way forward. Despite recent incidents, he urged a swift move toward polls, considering the political and economic situation.
Addressing the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) concerns about a lack of a level-playing field, the governor deemed the objections invalid. He highlighted that the PTI had conducted numerous rallies in KP, emphasizing the importance of preserving the integrity of the election process.
At a workers’ convention in Swabi, PTI workers alleged discriminatory policies by the KP government, accusing it of hindering the party’s campaign. PTI Vice President Sher Afzal Marwat stated that while other parties were allowed to run their campaigns, obstacles were created for the PTI, impeding its efforts.
