Election Commission takes notice of vandalism at polling station by Abdul Qadir Mandokhel

WEB DESK: In a disturbing turn of events, a video circulating on social media purportedly captured Abdul Qadir Mandokhel, a Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) candidate, breaking into a polling station in the National Assembly seat NA 242 of Keamari district, Karachi, Sindh’s capital.

The incident involves the vandalism and destruction of ballot boxes, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.

The footage, shared by a journalist, depicts Mandokhel forcibly entering the polling station with his supporters, breaking the entrance door, and using offensive language against the polling station staff.

Accompanying him are several young activists seen actively participating in the alleged act of vandalism.

Within the video, Mandokhel himself can be observed vandalising the interior of the polling station, breaking ballot boxes, and tearing ballot papers.

دن کا کیا دھرا رات کو باہر آ رہا ہے۔
Man in blue, a former National Assembly member & lawyer, overwhelmed by reports of rigging at his constituency's polling station, struggles to contain his anger😡#Elections2024 #Karachi pic.twitter.com/RncqFjAcEq

— Sameer Mandhro (@smendhro) February 8, 2024

The exact date and location of the incident remain unclear; however, the journalist claimed that it occurred during the general elections scheduled for February 8.

Following the widespread circulation of the video, social media users expressed their dismay and criticised Mandukhel.

Many pointed out that not only is he a former member of the Legislative House, but he also identifies himself as a lawyer and a human rights leader.

As of now, neither Abdul Qadir Mandokhel nor the Election Commission have issued a statement regarding the video in question.

The incident has raised concerns about the potential impact on the electoral process and the need for a swift and transparent investigation into the alleged actions of the PPP candidate.