MIRPURKHAS, Aug 22: The MQM-backed Haq Parast Group (HPG) and PML’s Khushhal Pakistan Panel (KPP) secured another seat of UC-6 Mirpurkhas city after recounting of votes which was ordered on the application of the HPG-KPP’s candidate of UC Nazim by Returning Officer, Saghar Hussain Zaidi.

With this result, tally of the HPG-KPP rose to seven in Mirpurkhas district from six.

According to unofficial results, an independent pair of nazim, Raheem Baloch and naib nazim Shaikh Abdul Hameed, was declared successful two days back in UC-6 city. However, Fakharuddin Bhatti, a candidate of UC-6 nazim, backed by the HPG and Shakeel Ahmed, a candidate for naib nazim, filed an application before RO Saghar Hussain Zaidi through their counsel Waseem Ahmed, praying for recounting of ballots at PS-152, situated in Mehmoodabad. They argued that bogus votes were polled under influence of presiding officer. The RO allowed the application, ordering recounting.

Hundreds of MQM activists, office-bearers and supporters gathered in the premises of the district and session court after recounting of votes began in presence of presiding officer Nasir Kamali and the contesting candidates. People remained present throughout the night and the next day in the premises to hear a decision.

The RO heard the candidates, presiding officer and other staff of above polling station.

He announced his decision, declaring Fakharuddin Bhatti and Shakeel Ahmed successful for the seat of nazim and naib nazim UC-6 with a margin of 311 votes. The pair got 1602 votes while rivals Rahim Baloch and Shaikh Abdul Hameed obtained 1291 votes.