KARACHI: PPP dominated second phase of Sindh LG polls in Karachi and Hyderabad divisions with historical margin amid delayed results, according to report. Though elections were held generally in peaceful manner, PTI and JI accused PPP of vote rigging and Election Commission of Pakistan for acting as silent and helpless spectator.

PPP blamed its rivals, mainly PTI for deliberately sabotaging peaceful process after sensing defeat in most parts of province, including its stronghold Karachi.

According to unofficial and uncomplete results in Hyderabad division, PPP is leading while securing 787 seats, Independent candidates secured 63 seats, PTI grabbed 59 seats, JI 13, GDA 11 and JUI-F has secured six seats so far.

PPP candidates remained successful on all seats in Bhan Saeedabad and Thatta and won 12 out of 14 seats in Municipal Committee Badin.

According to unofficial results of 87 union councils out of total 246 UCs in Karachi, PPP emerged victorious on 48 UCs, JI 35, PTI won on 18, while Tehreek-e-Labbaik, Jamiat Ulama-e-Islam and an Independent candidate claimed victory in one UC each.

Polling results could not be compiled in 1,200 seats of seven districts of Karachi division so far. JI claimed to win more than 100 Union Council seats, PPP claimed victory in more than 80 UCs, while PTI in 50 UCs.

Unofficial results suggest no party has been able to get clear majority for mayor. However, JI claims that it is in position to bring its own mayor and deputy mayor. Election Commission of Pakistan said preliminary election results would be released today. In tweet, PPP Chairperson and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said his party swept second phase of Local Body election.

Published in The Daily National Courier, January, 17 2023

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