Municipal election in Nowshera plagued by delays, irregularities

NOWSHERA: The much-anticipated local bodies election in Nowshera, featuring contests for one youth and one general council seat, faced a series of serious delays and disruptions on Sunday, leaving voters frustrated and local authorities scrambling to address emerging issues.

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Polling was set to begin at 8:00 AM across the districts of Jehangira and Pabbi, with elections scheduled for both the Youth Council and the General Council of District Jehangira. However, reports from the ground indicated that the polling process could not commence on time.

Voters arriving at various stations were met with unprepared polling booths and logistical chaos, casting doubt on the smooth execution of the election. Adding to the confusion, several polling stations in Nowshera reported a lack of essential facilities.

Most concerning, electricity supply was disconnected in the key polling area of Akora Khattak, further hampering the electoral process.

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In a particularly alarming development, vote box seals were discovered open on the ground at certain polling stations, raising serious concerns about the security and integrity of the election. The discovery of the unsealed ballot boxes has cast a shadow of doubt over the fairness of the process, with many questioning whether the election will proceed without further controversy.

Local authorities have yet to respond to the cause for delayed start or the apparent lapses in security.