ISLAMABAD: Leaders of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) launched a scathing attack on the ruling alliance on Saturday, raising serious questions about the recently concluded presidential election. The PTI leaders expressed their dissatisfaction following the defeat of their candidate, Mahmood Khan Achakzai, at the hands of the ruling coalition’s nominee, Asif Ali Zardari.
Addressing the media outside the Parliament House, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan took a direct jab at Zardari, referring to him as the ‘king of corrupt elements’ and asserting that he is being imposed on the country.
Another PTI leader, Asad Qaiser, criticised the entire election process, deeming it controversial. Qaiser argued that presidential elections are deemed illegal when the assembly is incomplete. He added that the PTI is gearing up for a legal battle and will also seek justice from the people.
Barrister Ali Zafar, also speaking on the occasion, questioned how individuals were allowed to vote when the issue of reserved seats was still under court scrutiny. PTI leaders contended that the ruling coalition has a history of acquiring positions through questionable means, referencing Shehbaz Sharif becoming the prime minister on what they allege was a fake mandate.
PTI General Secretary Omar Ayub Khan accused those rejected by the people of being given positions in an illegitimate manner.
Barrister Gohar emphasised that occupying constitutional positions unconstitutionally violates the Constitution. He expressed concern over the growing influence of two prominent families, the Sharifs and Zardaris, not only on the country’s resources but now on democratic institutions as well.
Amir Dogar, addressing the gathering, asserted that the ruling coalition had stolen the PTI’s mandate, labeling the elections as controversial.
In a statement, the PTI spokesperson announced a peaceful protest to be held across the country tomorrow, aiming to reclaim what they referred to as the ‘stolen mandate.’
