PML-N is orchestrating conspiracy with ECP to manipulate elections: Khosa

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Latif Khosa accused on Monday the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) of orchestrating a conspiracy in tandem with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to manipulate the upcoming elections. Speaking to media persons in Lahore, Khosa claimed that he, as the NA-122 constituency candidate, has been confronted with irregularities orchestrated by PML-N’s election staff. Khosa asserted that the PML-N has strategically appointed election staff favoring their party, alleging that members from 60 thousand families have been assigned to cast votes in separate polling stations. He highlighted the unusual placement of a DHA voter’s polling station in villages and streets, and upon his request, the Election Commission directed the Deputy Commissioner (DC) to investigate. However, Khosa expressed concerns about the impartiality of the investigation, citing that the DC has familial ties with the Chief Minister, potentially compromising the fairness of the process. “How can we have a level playing field if the investigating authority is closely connected to the ruling party?” Khosa questioned. The PTI leader accused the PML-N of resorting to various tactics to undermine their opponents, stating, “These people have done everything. They could not break our vote bank, so they resorted to manipulating the polling stations.” Khosa claimed that despite their efforts, PTI remains undeterred, and they have taken the matter to the Election Commission for a fair resolution. Khosa also revealed that district presidents within the PTI have been instructed to expel any party members violating discipline, emphasizing the need for unity. He also raised concerns about the denial of an opportunity for their lawyer to present arguments in the Toshakhana case, further highlighting perceived injustices. In a surprising turn, Khosa extended an invitation to the People’s Party, stating that if they align with PTI on the issue of rigging, PTI would appreciate their support. He criticized past decisions that he deemed incorrect and called for a united front against any attempts to manipulate the democratic process.