PML-Q’s Pervaiz Elahi takes a jab at PML-N, implies election rigging

LAHORE: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi has slammed the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), claiming that the party has grown accustomed to contesting elections without voters.

Former PML-Q leader’s remarks came after his appearance at the FIA Central Court in Lahore, where he attended a hearing related to a money laundering case.

The hearing, overseen by Judge Arif Khan Niazi, saw the judge reserve the verdict after both sides had presented their arguments. However, the case was adjourned until December 18, with the judge requesting further arguments.

Addressing the media following the court session, Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi stated that the PML-N had “got used to contesting elections without voters,” arguing that a legitimate election must involve substantial voter turnout. He also criticised the ruling party’s conduct, saying that if voter participation falls below twenty percent, the election should be deemed invalid.

“Voters are the foundation of an election,” Elahi said. “Without them, elections lose their legitimacy.”

Elahi also commented on the low voter turnout during recent by-elections, suggesting that widespread public disillusionment had led to a boycott. He pointed to PTI’s founder, Imran Khan, who has been incarcerated for more than two years, as a key figure in this discontent.

“Imran Khan has been in jail for over two years. I pray, and I urge you all to pray, for his swift release. He has no fear, and neither should we,” Elahi said, rallying support for his party leader.

The PTI leader also noted the ongoing legal challenges he faces, acknowledging that there are multiple cases against him. Despite these, he revealed that he was actively engaged in election-related activities, particularly in the ongoing bar council elections.