The explosive resignation of Rawalpindi Commissioner Liaquat Ali Chatha has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, exposing a web of manipulated elections and electoral irregularities. As Chatha takes responsibility for the wrongdoing and alleges the involvement of top officials, the unfolding drama has prompted a high-level probe ordered by Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi. The denial of allegations by the Election Commission of Pakistan adds another layer of complexity to this unfolding saga. The nation awaits the outcome of the investigation, hoping for clarity and justice in the aftermath of this unprecedented revelation.
Rawalpindi Commissioner
Liaquat Ali Chatha, the Commissioner of Rawalpindi Division, played a central role in the unfolding drama surrounding the manipulated elections. Chatha, once in a position of authority, shocked the nation by resigning from his post and admitting to his involvement in electoral irregularities. His actions have sparked widespread debate and scrutiny, as the nation grapples with the implications of his revelations.
The letter was addressed to Punjab Governor Haji Ghulam Ali, interim provincial chief minister Mohsin Naqvi and the provincial chief secretary.
The commissioner further said that “stabbing the country in its back” does not let him sleep.
The February 8 general elections in Pakistan were marred by allegations of manipulation and irregularities. Rawalpindi Commissioner Liaquat Ali Chatha made explosive claims, asserting that the election results were manipulated under his watch. These accusations have shaken the political landscape and raised serious concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
“I should be punished for the injustice I have done and others who were involved in this injustice should also be punished,” he added.
Earlier, addressing a press conference at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Chatha said there was “pressure” on him to the extent that he contemplated suicide in the morning but then resolved to present matters before the public.
Liaquat Ali Chatha
When asked if there were “irregularities” in the electoral process and if the local returning officers had delayed the transmission of results, Chatha said that “‘irregularities’ is a minor word for it”.
Speaking to reporters outside the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Chatha said, “I am taking responsibility for all this wrongdoing.” He alleged that the chief election commissioner and a top judge of the Supreme Court were “involved in this”.
Liaquat Ali Chatha, the former Commissioner of Rawalpindi Division, emerged as a key figure in the controversy surrounding the manipulated elections. Chatha’s bold claims and subsequent resignation have thrust him into the spotlight, prompting questions about his motives and the extent of his involvement in the electoral process. His actions have left a lasting impact on the political landscape of Pakistan.
Liaquat Ali Chatha’s resignation from his position as Rawalpindi Commissioner sent shockwaves through the political establishment. In a dramatic turn of events, Chatha admitted to his role in manipulating the elections and expressed remorse for his actions. His resignation marks a significant moment in Pakistan’s political history, highlighting the challenges and controversies surrounding the electoral process.
Electoral Irregularities
“We made independent candidates — who had leads of 70,000-80,000 votes — lose by putting on fake stamps,” he added.
The February 8 general elections in Pakistan were marred by widespread irregularities and allegations of rigging. From delayed transmission of results to accusations of tampering with ballot papers, the electoral process was plagued by various irregularities. These issues have raised serious concerns about the fairness and transparency of the elections, casting a shadow over the legitimacy of the results.
Election Commision Rejected Allegations
Responding to Chatha’s claims, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) said it “strongly rejected the allegations against the ECP or the chief election commissioner”.
In a press release, the electoral watchdog said none of its officials ever issued any instructions to Chatha for a “change in the election results”.
“Neither is the commissioner of any division ever appointed as a district returning officer, returning office or a presiding officer nor do they ever play a direct role in the conduct of elections,” it asserted.
“However, the election commission will conduct an inquiry into the matter as soon as possible.”
Caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi ordered an “impartial probe” into the allegations levelled by Chatha.
Taking notice of the claims in a statement, he directed that a “high-level committee” be constituted to conduct an inquiry into the matter.
“An independent inquiry of the allegations will be held,” CM Naqvi asserted, adding that the facts will be brought forward.
Meanwhile, Punjab caretaker Information Minister Amir Mir also rejected the claims made by Chatha.
Noting that Chatha was retiring on March 13, Mir said, “I imagine he’s trying to kick start his political career after he retires.”
The minister further questioned why the official did not come clean about the alleged rigging on February 8 when the polls were held.
Terming Chatha’s statements as “irresponsible claims”, Mir asked: “If he was forced, why did he not come forward on election day? Why did he come clean after election day?”
“There was some political affiliation of his own or plans and designs that did not happen so he is taking his anger out by blaming the government and elections,” the provincial minister alleged.
Mir further said a probe into Chatha’s mental health was needed, stating that the commissioner had called for himself to be severely punished.
The PML-N said that the statements made by the Rawalpindi commissioner were a “tactic to gain cheap popularity”.
FAQ’s
Q: What led to Rawalpindi Commissioner Liaquat Ali Chatha’s resignation?
A: Chatha resigned, admitting to electoral irregularities and manipulated elections in the February 8 polls, claiming responsibility for converting losers into winners.
Q: Are there official investigations into Liaquat Ali Chatha’s claims?
A: Yes, Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi has ordered a high-level committee to conduct an impartial probe into the allegations made by Chatha.
Q: How has the Election Commission of Pakistan responded to Chatha’s allegations?
A: The Election Commission strongly rejects the allegations, stating that no instructions were issued for a change in the election results and asserting that an inquiry will be conducted soon.
Q: How is the public reacting to the unfolding political drama?
A: The public is in suspense, awaiting the outcome of the investigation. Some question the timing and authenticity of Chatha’s claims, while others express concern over the integrity of the electoral process.
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