In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has dismissed the plea for a vote recount in the PB-14 constituency, solidifying the victory of PML-N’s Mahmood Khan. The decision was announced by a three-judge bench led by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, who emphasized the importance of the electoral process and the authority of voters.

Background of the Case

The case arose from the electoral contest in PB-14, where Ghulam Rasool, a leader from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), contested the results. Rasool alleged discrepancies in the vote count, particularly at seven polling stations out of the total 96. He called for a recount, arguing that irregularities in the results warranted a review of the official tally.

Court Proceedings

During the proceedings, Chief Justice Isa firmly addressed Rasool’s claims. He stated, “Even if the presiding officer is your ‘staunch enemy,’ the voters make the decision.” This remark underscored the court’s stance on the integrity of the electoral process, indicating that the ultimate authority rests with the electorate.

Justice Isa further pointed out that Form 45, which is often used to document polling results, holds little significance when weighed against the actual votes cast. This assertion was pivotal in the court’s reasoning for dismissing the recount application.

Lack of Evidence

Both Chief Justice Isa and Justice Naeem emphasized the absence of substantial evidence to support Rasool’s allegations. The court maintained that without concrete proof, the request for a recount could not be justified. This decision highlights the judiciary’s role in upholding electoral outcomes unless clear evidence of malpractice is presented.

Implications of the Decision

The Supreme Court’s ruling reinforces the legitimacy of the electoral process in Pakistan, establishing a precedent that calls for strong evidence when contesting election results. It also reflects the court’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of democratic processes, emphasizing that electoral disputes must be resolved based on facts rather than assumptions.

Conclusion

The rejection of the recount plea in PB-14 serves as a reminder of the judiciary’s role in Pakistan’s political landscape. With the PML-N’s Mahmood Khan confirmed as the winner, this decision is likely to have implications for both the PPP and the broader electoral strategies of political parties in future contests.

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