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ECP Declares PPP’s Zehri Winner in PB-21 After Legal Battle
After a legal battle and vote recount, PPP’s Mir Alim Hassan Zehri secures PB-21 seat, ending Bhootani’s decades-long hold.
ND
by News Desk
2024-12-21
ECP Declares PPP’s Zehri Winner in PB-21 After Legal Battle

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has officially declared Mir Alim Hassan Zehri of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) as the winner from PB-21 (Hub-Lasbela) in the general elections, following a legal battle that culminated in a vote recount at 39 polling stations.

This decision marks a significant political shift, as Mr. Zehri has ended the decades-long dominance of Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) leader Sardar Muhammad Saleh Bhootani, who had won the PB-21 seat nine times since 1977.

Challenging the Status Quo

In the February 2024 elections, Mr. Bhootani was initially declared the winner, but Mir Alim Hassan Zehri contested the results, alleging discrepancies and demanding a vote recount. The dispute eventually reached the Balochistan High Court and the Supreme Court of Pakistan.

The apex court, after reviewing the petitions, directed the ECP to resolve the matter. The ECP’s full bench, after hearing arguments from both candidates, conducted the recount and declared Mr. Zehri as the rightful winner.

ECP’s Verdict

The ECP’s decision has been hailed as a milestone for electoral transparency and accountability. The recount highlighted the importance of addressing grievances promptly to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.

The ECP’s announcement has also brought an end to Sardar Saleh Bhootani’s longstanding grip on the Hub-Lasbela constituency, which he had represented for over four decades.

Significance of the Decision

The outcome is seen as a major victory for the PPP in Balochistan, a province where the party has historically faced challenges in gaining a strong foothold. Mr. Zehri’s win could potentially signal a shift in the political landscape of the region.

Political analysts believe that the decision may also encourage other candidates to challenge electoral outcomes they deem unfair, strengthening democratic practices in the country.

Looking Ahead

The decision brings to light the critical role of judicial and electoral institutions in ensuring fair elections. For Mr. Zehri, the challenge now lies in delivering on his campaign promises and addressing the expectations of his constituents.

Meanwhile, the loss marks a significant setback for Mr. Bhootani, whose long-standing political career has been a defining feature of the Hub-Lasbela constituency for decades.

Conclusion

As the dust settles on the legal battle, the ECP’s verdict is expected to inspire greater confidence in the electoral system while highlighting the importance of due process in resolving disputes.

 

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