Pakistan to go to polling booths today; 28 killed in twin blasts

Thursday 08 February, 2024 | 12:05 AM

ISLAMABAD: General elections will be held in Pakistan on Thursday under the threat of violence and a potential coup. In the meantime, Balochistan was rocked by two consecutive bombs on Wednesday, leaving 28 people dead and numerous others injured. Several vehicles and shops were also destroyed in the blasts.

The first blast took place outside the election office of independent candidate Asfandyar Kakar in Pishin. Reportedly, Kakar is contesting elections from NA-265 constituency and Balochistan Assembly constituencies -- PB-47 and PB-48 in the February 8 elections. 18 people were killed in the blast.

The second blast was reported in Qila Saifullah shortly after the first attack. 10 people were killed in the blast that took place outside JUI-F's (Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F)) election office. No one has claimed responsibility for the attacks.

Widespread violence is taking place in Pakistan in the context of elections. Security has been beefed up across the country in view of the possibility of violence. More than five lakh security personnel have been deployed. Meanwhile, reports are claiming that Nawaz Sharif is likely to come to power in Pakistan.

Polling

National Assembly 336 seats

749 seats in four provincial assemblies

Election to be held from 8 am to 5 pm

12.8 crore voters

18,000 candidates

90,000 polling stations

Main parties