The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) filed a complaint on Saturday with the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) to probe incidents of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) candidates openly carrying arms in Lahore in violation of the code of conduct.
The complaint filed by Sardar Latif Khosa with the CEC cited incidents of rioting and firing on April 20 and 23, 2013 at the Dry Port, Lahore as well as the attack on the convoy of an independent candidate Ayesha Ahad Malik.
Giving background of the incidents, the complaint said a riot-like situation was created by open use of firearms at a meeting of PML-N candidates and supporters at the Dry Port in the NA-124, Lahore area on 23 April, 2013 resulting in grievous injuries to some. Unfortunately, the police tried to cover up this blatant incident of violence because the local police continue to support PML-N candidates, the complaint said.
Yet another incident of naked aggression in NA-119 in Lahore occurred on Saturday, April 20 within the jurisdiction of Police Station City Tibbi when the car of independent candidate Ayesha Ahad Malik was attacked by henchmen of the PML-N candidate.
TV channels have footage of the incident and despite an application for registration of a case; no crime report was registered nor was any culprit arrested. Instead, the Punjab IG went for reconciliation and had the vehicle repaired, it said.
The attack on Ayesha Ahad Malik must be seen in the backdrop of the PML-N leaders’ open threats to her, it added. The smashing of the car was a trailer to be followed by attacks on her life if she did not desist, the complaint said.
The PML-N candidates and their supporters are patronised by the police that is a hurdle in holding of free and fair election in Lahore. Other parties are showing restraint but may be provoked to counter violence and intimidation, said the complaint. Measures must be taken to prevent PML-N candidates, supported by the local administration loyal to Sharifs, from resorting to acts of violence and intimidation, the petition said.
