THIS is with reference to the report ‘54pc Pakistanis say polls were transparent: report’ (March 3), which related to a report issued by Ipsos, an international research organisation, which conducted a post-election survey of 3,000 people in Pakistan. It is noteworthy that the majority opinion asserted that the elections were not rigged, and had been conducted fairly and transparently .

Embracing election results is indis- pensable for upholding political stability and preventing the eruption of violence or civil discord. By adhering to democ- ratic principles and embracing election outcomes, societies can uphold the rule of law and settle disputes through peaceful and lawful avenues.

The credibility and legitimacy of democ- ratic institutions hinge on the perception that elections are conducted freely, fairly and transparently. When all stakeholders accept the election results, it bolsters trust in the electoral process and fortifies confidence in democratic institutions. Conversely, allegations of electoral malpractice or manipulation, coupled with the refusal to acknowledge election outcomes, erode public confidence and undermine democracy.

Nonetheless, when election results are met with defiance or opposition, the repercussions extend far beyond the realm of the ballot box. At its essence, democ- racy relies on a tranquil transfer of power through unfettered and equitable elections. When election outcomes are contested or disregarded, it undermines the very essence of democratic governance. Rejecting the outcome of an election signals a disregard for the rule of law, diminishes public confidence in democratic institutions, and establishes a hazardous precedent for future electoral contests.

One of the most immediate repercussions of failing to accept election results is the potential for serious political instability and unrest. Political instability disrupts governmental operations, and under- mines investor confidence, economic growth as well as social cohesion.

In societies already fractured along political lines, the refusal to acknow-ledge election results exacerbates polari- sation and widens the gap between opposing factions. This polarisation does hamper progress on critical issues, stifles constructive discourse, and impedes the government’s ability to govern effectively.

Public trust in democratic institutions is indispensable for the health of Pakistani democracy. Economic crises pose formidable challenges, and they are capable of shaking the very core and testing the resilience of the nation. That being so, the imperative of unity cannot be overstated, as collective action and solidarity are indispensable for weathering the stormy seas of the country’s financial uncertainty.

Economic downturns have a tendency to deepen societal divisions, pitting individuals and factions against one another in a scramble for scarce resources. However, unity offers a potent antidote to this fragmentation, rallying people together to confront shared adversities, and pool resources for the common good.

The imperative now is to move beyond the electoral process and collectively address the issues facing the country. The interests of the state should not be allowed to be overshadowed by partisan agendas and ideological clashes.

It is of critical value for the nation and its leaders to unite for the better-ment of the country. The populace seeks peace, stability and economic prosperity. It wants to stay away from all sorts of divisions and controversies.

It is incumbent upon all mainstream political parties and factions in the country to demonstrate maturity, accept the people’s will, and collaborate to ensure the nation’s progress ahead. Failure to do that will have repercussions.

Abdul Basit Alvi
Muzaffarabad

Published in Dawn, March 16th, 2024