The ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) secured a majority of seats in the recent by-elections, a stark contrast to the opposition’s surprising victory in the general elections. The PML-N’s success included victories in Bajaur and Gujrat, where independent candidates won seats previously held by PML-N leaders. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) faced setbacks, losing in key constituencies. Despite allegations of rigging, the PML-N’s win reflects its strong position in these elections. The by-elections were held for five National Assembly and 16 provincial assembly seats, with sporadic clashes reported in some areas. The Election Commission of Pakistan ensured transparency by instructing the election staff to provide Form 45 to all polling agents. The results were mixed for the PTI in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where it contested under the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) platform, winning two of the four seats.
