Vote Recount Approved in Punjab's NA-133 Constituency

Islamabad, Feb 12: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has approved the request for a vote recount in the NA-133 Chunian constituency of Punjab. This decision comes after Rana Muhammad Ishaq Khan, a PML-N candidate, challenged the results that saw independent candidate Azimuddin Zahid Lakhvi (supported by PTI) win by 10,756 votes.

The notice for the recount was issued to Lakhvi on February 12th, requiring his presence at the designated venue on the scheduled date. This development signifies a potential shift in the constituency's outcome, which could impact the overall political landscape in Punjab.

Meanwhile, in NA-121 Lahore, the ECP rejected the request for a recount filed by former PML-N member Sheikh Rohail Asghar. The returning officer cited the lack of timely complaints raised by Asghar as the reason for the rejection. This decision confirms the initial victory of PML-Q candidate Tariq Bashir Cheema in the constituency.

Additionally, the ECP rejected a request for re-polling in NA-35 Kohat. However, they did approve re-polling in 25 polling stations of PK-90 Kohat, scheduled for February 15th. This decision follows reports of irregularities observed during the initial voting process in those specific stations.

These developments highlight the ECP's ongoing efforts to ensure fair and transparent elections. While recounting in NA-133 could alter the results in that constituency, the rejected requests in NA-121 and NA-35 showcase the commission's adherence to established procedures and regulations.