ISLAMABAD: Amid rising political tension and protests over the alleged vote rigging in the Feb 8 general elections, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar on Saturday came out with a piece of advice to the protesting parties and individuals: pursue legal recourse instead of agitation.

In a statement issued hours after Rawalpindi Commissioner Liaqat Ali Chattha made startling allegations of rigging in the elections, providing an impetus to the agitating parties, the caretaker premier warned that violence and agitation would not be tolerated in the country.

He said the recently conducted elections in the country had been a step towards promoting democracy and significant turnout from all segments of society, including both genders, had been acknowledged internationally.

Post-elections, he said, it was imperative that all the stakeholders realise that victory and defeat were inherent aspects of democratic processes.

Says govt will not condone violence or incitement to vigilantism

“The parties and individuals who harbour any concerns regarding electoral irregularities are encouraged to pursue legal recourse through the available channels. Pakistan’s legislative, judicial, and executive branches are resilient and stand ready to deliver impartial justice to all,” he added.

Mr Kakar said that while peaceful protest and assembly were fundamental rights, “any form of agitation, violence or incitement for vigilantism will not be condoned and the law would take its course without any hesitation.”

The premier made it clear that anarchy and disorder would not be tolerated at this crucial time and this only served to advance the age­nda for “hostile forces, both domestic and foreign, to exploit and create grave law and order challenges”.

He said the caretaker government implored patience as political parties engaged in consultations to form federal and provincial governments in accordance with democratic traditions and norms.

“We hope that this process concludes as early as possible with mutual understanding and respect,” he said.

Published in Dawn, February 18th, 2024