Protests erupted across Balochistan and Karachi as many political parties rejected the recently announced election results, claiming rampant rigging.
Following closely contested elections, prominent parties such as the National Party, PPP, JUI-F, BAP, BNP-Mengal, PkMAP, and PkNAP organized sit-ins at district returning offices, seeking recounts and questioning the announced results.
Discontent was rampant in Quetta, with protests engulfing main thoroughfares including Sariab Road, Buleli Road, and Anscomb Road. Similar protests erupted in Chaman, Chagai, Dalbandin, Loralai, Qila Abdullah, Kharan, and Sibi, effectively closing down critical national highways in Naseerabad, Jafarabad, Sohbatpur, Kalat, and Nushki.
The protests crossed provincial lines, reaching Karachi, where Jamaat-e-Islami, JUI, and PTI scheduled rallies against alleged election tampering. JUI intends to hold protests in Sohrab Goth, Quaidabad, and the Northern Bypass, while Jamaat-e-Islami will gather supporters in Stargate, Korangi, Shahrah Pakistan, UP Mor, Orangi, Hassan Square, Quaidabad, and Nazimabad. The PTI plans to hold a demonstration outside the Election Commission of Pakistan's office.
Meanwhile, in Islamabad, the capital police have declared that Section 144 is in effect and that any illegal gathering of persons will be prosecuted. "Some individuals are instigating unlawful gatherings near the ECP's office and other government offices. It should be reminded that inciting people to assemble is also unlawful," it stated in a tweet on X.
The police stated in the post that everyone has the right to a peaceful demonstration within the law and that they will take legal action against any illegal actions. "Following the law is everyone's responsibility. Citizens are asked to avoid participating in illicit activities," the police stated.