KARACHI: Ignoring allegations of rigging by the opposition parties, the Pakistan Peoples Party on Friday described its victory in local government by-polls as the defeat of those doing “politics of division”.

PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari while congratulating the party leaders and workers over the “historic victory”, expressed his gratitude and appreciation for his party workers and voters.

“Once again, the arrow has made its mark across Sindh, including Karachi, where the followers of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto have emerged victorious,” he said, referring to his party’s election symbol.

He emphasised that the results clearly reflected the people’s preference for inclusive public service over “politics of division and discord”, and a testament to the public’s trust and unwavering support for the PPP, as well as the dedication and hard work of committed party workers.

“This victory brings with it great responsibilities and challenges. You will face a landscape of limited resources and numerous issues, but your perseverance and commitment to the party’s vision will guide the way forward,” he said.

PPP-Sindh general secretary Senator Waqar Mehdi also hailed the party’s “remarkable victory” in the by-elections for local government seats in 18 districts of Sindh, including Karachi.

He said that the PPP’s historic victory had left its opponents reeling from their humiliating defeat.

Highlighting the party’s dedication to Karachi’s development, he pointed out that projects worth over Rs200 billion under the provincial government are currently underway.

He added that Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) would soon initiate Rs20 million worth of development projects in each union committee. Moreover, the rehabilitation of roads damaged during the monsoon rains is progressing at a rapid pace, he claimed.

Meanwhile, Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon has congratulated the successful candidates of the PPP in the by-elections.

“I congratulate all the PPP candidates who succeeded in the municipal by-elections. Their victory is proof that the people of Sindh have faith in the leadership and vision of the PPP.”

He stated that under the leadership of President Asif Ali Zardari and chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the party is striving to uplift marginalised communities and support the underprivileged.

Published in Dawn, November 16th, 2024