Although people are expecting a tough fight between the candidates of Muttehida Qaumi Movement (MQM) and its ideological rival, Jamaate-e-Islami (JI), on NA 253, the dwellers of posh areas that make a larger part of Gulshan-e-Iqbal Town can change the overall scenario following the rising popularity of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI).
The MQM took part in 2008 elections with the JI’s boycott that helped the former to secure both the seats from this area. Interestingly, the PPP outspoken leader, Syed Faisal Raza Abidi, was a strong contender during the last general elections.
At least four potential candidates are running in the arena of NA-253 which include Asadullah Bhutto of the JI, Muzzamil Qureshi of the MQM, Muhammad Murad Baloch of the PPP and Muhammad Ashraf Jabbar Qureshi of the PTI.
The NA 253 consists of various towns including Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Jamali Colony, Gilani Railway, Shanti Nagar, Katchi Para, Waseem Bagh, Gulshan-e-Iqbal Block 1, 2, 3 and 6, Patel Hospital, Quid-e-Azam Society, Metrovill-III Block 1 and 2, and Karachi University Staff Colony.
It also comprises Gulistan-e-Johar Block 2, 4, 5, 6, and 7, 10, 11, 14, 15, 16 and 10 and Pehlwan Goth. Besides, the constituency sprawls to other parts like Gulshan-e-Iqbal Town, Abbas Town, Gulzar-e-Hijri Scheme 33, Sachal Goth, SPARCO Road, Johar Complex, Bakhtawar Goth, Bhattiabad, Gunjo Town, Ahsanabad and Dhari Bux Goth of Malir District.
The political analysts believe that circumscription of MQM candidates’ campaign in the constituency will surely benefit JI candidate in NA-253, however, half of the constituency makes posh area that could change the whole fate in the constituency if they vote for the PTI.
MQM candidate Muzzamil Qureshi has not bothered to visit even the Sindhi-dominated areas of the constituency – Shanti Nagar, Dalmia, Kachi Para, Sachal Goth, Mosmiyat, Safoora Goth, Makhdoom Bilawal Goth, Pehlwan Goth, Chisti Nagar, and several other katchi abadies.
However, JI’s Asadullah Bhutto had paid detailed visits to such areas, who, according to observers, will support him in replacing the PPP candidates who never won this constituency.
In the wake of terror activities in the city, the JI continuously has been continuously demanding of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to call in army and deploy it inside polling stations on the elections day to ensure a peaceful electoral process. Stationing of army men will help stop any attempts if made to rig the polls, the JI says.
But the MQM is still unwilling to support its arch rivals’ demand for deployment of military men at polling stations.