Unusual Delays in Pakistan’s Vote Count Prompt Election Panel Warning.

Pakistan’s national election witnessed unexpected delays in the vote count, leading the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to issue a late-night warning, over 10 hours after polls closed, urging polling officers to release results immediately. The Election Commission cited an “internet issue” as the cause of the delay, announcing official results for four national parliamentary seats more than 12 hours after the polling process ended. Two seats were won by the party of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, and the remaining two by independent candidates.

Earlier indicators had suggested a surprise lead for the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the party of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The election had already faced challenges, including militant attacks, the suspension of mobile phone services, and a lack of a clear leader even after voting concluded.

The country, grappling with economic woes and rising militant violence, anticipated a major political contest between candidates supported by Imran Khan’s PTI and the Pakistan Muslim League of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The Election Commission, addressing the delays, ordered swift result announcements, warning of strict action if not complied with.

Security measures were heightened, with thousands of troops deployed, borders temporarily closed, and mobile phone services suspended for security reasons. Despite these measures, nine people, including two children, were killed in various incidents. The PTI party called on people to remove passwords from personal wifi accounts to enable broader internet access. Concerns were raised by the US State Department over restrictions on freedom of expression, particularly regarding internet and cellphone use during the election.