KARACHI — Pakistan’s opposition alliance, Tehreek Tahafuz-i-Ayeen Pakistan (TTAP), on Sunday intensified pressure on the federal government by demanding an independent investigation into the February 8, 2024, general elections, calling for accountability under Article 6 of the Constitution, which deals with high treason, according to Dawn News.
The demand was made during an All Parties Conference (APC) in Karachi, held against the backdrop of mounting national and international criticism over alleged election manipulation. Independent observer groups, including the Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN), the Commonwealth Observer Group, and several international watchdogs, have reported irregularities ranging from delayed results to alleged interference in vote tabulation, fueling public mistrust in the electoral process.
Led by veteran politician Mehmood Khan Achakzai, TTAP announced a nationwide “Black Day” and strike on February 8, marking the first anniversary of what it described as a “deeply compromised” election. The alliance is also mobilizing support for a countrywide protest movement spearheaded by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
In its manifesto, TTAP stressed that democratic legitimacy hinges on transparent elections and demanded the immediate appointment of an impartial chief election commissioner and the formation of a new election commission. The document also criticized recent constitutional amendments, alleging they weakened judicial independence and sidelined senior judges known for dissenting rulings.
The alliance further condemned what it termed politically motivated prosecutions, calling for the immediate release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and other detained political leaders. It also demanded the repeal of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), describing it as a tool to suppress dissent and muzzle the media.
TTAP warned that without credible reforms and accountability, Pakistan’s democratic crisis would deepen, further eroding public confidence at home and abroad.
