Pakistan's 2024 elections marred by mass rigging and judicial manipulation

The recent general elections in Pakistan, held on February 8, 2024, have been labeled as the most brutally rigged in the nation's history, shattering any remaining semblance of democracy. The rigging began months before election day, with the ruling powers stealing the cricket bat symbol of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, leaving voters unable to identify their candidates on the ballot. This led to chaos, as PTI candidates were forced to run as independents, while rallies were banned, banners torn down, and flags forbidden. Many party leaders faced jail time, exile, or were driven underground.

Despite these oppressive tactics, the people of Pakistan demonstrated resilience, achieving one of the highest voter turnouts in history. Independent observers confirmed that PTI-affiliated candidates won between 170 to 180 seats in parliament. However, within 24 to 72 hours, the election results were manipulated, preventing PTI from forming a government. Reports indicated that vote counts were altered dramatically, with some constituencies showing impossible increases in voter numbers.

The situation worsened as the government targeted the judiciary. Through the 26th constitutional amendment, they restructured the judicial commission, filling it with political loyalists and stripping judges of their independence. This move transformed the courts from a check on executive power into a tool for political interests, eroding public confidence in the judicial system.

The events surrounding the 2024 elections and subsequent judicial changes highlight a troubling trend of political repression in Pakistan, raising serious concerns about the future of democracy in the country.