The nomination papers of Sardar Akhtar Mengal, leader of the Balochistan National Party (BNP), for the upcoming general elections have been rejected. The rejection pertains to his candidacies in both the NA-256 and PB-20 Khuzdar constituencies.
The primary reason cited for this rejection is related to discrepancies in Mengal’s residency permit (Iqama). This development adds a significant twist to the electoral process, particularly affecting the BNP’s participation.
Responding to the decision, Mengal criticized the electoral system, drawing comparisons with other political figures, notably Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan’s former Prime Minister. Mengal pointed out what he perceives as an inconsistency in the application of electoral rules. “While my papers were rejected on the basis of the Iqama, those of Nawaz Sharif, who has been convicted and declared permanently ineligible, were accepted,” he said, highlighting perceived biases in the electoral process.
In a related development, Qasim Suri, a member of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), also had his nomination papers for NA-263 rejected. The reasons cited included defaulting, fugitive status, and issues with his identity card.
Mengal expressed concern that the rejections of both BNP and PTI candidates might suggest a wider strategy influencing the election’s outcome. He reflected on the BNP’s role in addressing the issues of Balochistan in assembly, saying, “Our crime is that we openly discussed the injustices happening in Balochistan.”
The BNP leader confirmed that the party is currently consulting with its legal team and senior colleagues about the situation. The rejection of Mengal’s nomination papers has ignited a debate over the fairness and impartiality of the electoral process in Pakistan, particularly concerning the representation of Balochistan.