Rigged Elections in Pakistan: Undermining Democratic Rights and Targeting PTI

Suppression of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)

The February 2024 general elections in Pakistan were marred by widespread allegations of manipulation, suppression, and intimidation, disproportionately targeting the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party led by former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who has been arbitrarily detained since 5 August 2023. The electoral process faced serious criticism for actions that undermined democratic norms, fairness, and transparency.

Supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party protest against the alleged election rigging in Karachi

Disqualification and Symbol Removal

In January 2024, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), backed by the Supreme Court, barred PTI from using its iconic cricket bat symbol, citing irregularities in intra-party elections. This move forced PTI candidates to run as independents under unfamiliar symbols, severely limiting voter recognition in a country with a literacy rate of only 60%. Critics argue this was a politically motivated tactic to weaken the party’s electoral prospects.

Harassment and Intimidation of Candidates

PTI candidates and supporters faced systemic harassment, intimidation, and arbitrary arrests. Many were blocked from campaigning, had nomination papers rejected, or were coerced into leaving the party. Some candidates were abducted or tortured, creating an environment of fear that suppressed political participation. On election day, internet shutdowns and delayed result announcements further disrupted the voting process. Initial counts indicated PTI-backed independents leading in several constituencies, but final results were delayed and allegedly manipulated, raising widespread accusations of vote tampering.

Mass Sentencing of PTI Members

On 31 July 2025, 108 members of PTI—including Members of the National Assembly and opposition leaders—were sentenced to up to 10 years in prison without credible evidence for their alleged involvement in the May 9, 2023 protests. This mass sentencing is widely viewed as part of a coordinated effort to paralyze PTI and eliminate political opposition through judicial persecution.

Election Day Irregularities and International Concerns

The international community expressed deep concerns over the February 2024 elections. The U.S. State Department highlighted undue restrictions on freedoms of expression and assembly, citing attacks on media personnel and obstacles to fair campaigning. The European Union noted a lack of a level playing field, emphasizing restrictions on assembly, expression, and internet access. The UK Foreign Secretary also raised serious concerns regarding fairness, delayed result reporting, and alleged irregularities in vote counting.

Leaked Commonwealth Report on Election Rigging

Investigative journalists have reported that a Commonwealth election monitoring report was suppressed to cover up widespread rigging against PTI. The leaked report highlights large-scale manipulation, indicating that PTI was forced to contest as independent candidates and faced systematic obstruction during the election process. These findings suggest coordinated interference by the military and state institutions to influence electoral outcomes.

Summary

The February 2024 elections in Pakistan exemplify how democratic processes can be undermined through political persecution, voter manipulation, and institutional interference. Targeting PTI and its supporters demonstrates the ongoing erosion of democratic norms, suppression of opposition voices, and challenges to free and fair elections in Pakistan.