Election Fraud Allegations and Violence Rock Sialkot By-Election

Sialkot By-Election Marred by Allegations of Rigging and Violence A press conference held in Sialkot, Pakistan on June 1, 2025, brought to light serious allegations of election rigging and violence during the recent by-election in PP-52. The speaker, Sheikh Waqas Akram, a prominent figure within the PTI (Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf), detailed several incidents where PTI workers were allegedly targeted and injured. "Many of our workers were injured during the voting process. The police were either complicit or unwilling to intervene," Akram stated during the press conference. He cited specific polling stations, including those in the areas of UC Badoki, UC Raloke, and UC Kherolian, where alleged ballot stuffing and voter intimidation occurred. Videos circulating on social media appear to support some of these claims, showing clashes between PTI workers and law enforcement. The allegations raise concerns about the fairness and integrity of the by-election. The Election Commission of Pakistan is expected to investigate these claims. The events highlight the ongoing political tensions in the region and the need for transparent and peaceful electoral processes.