In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court underscored the primacy of ballot papers in determining election outcomes, stating that they hold greater significance than Forms 45 and 47. This decision emerged from a case involving the February 8 elections in the PB-14 (Naseerabad-II) constituency, where allegations of electoral manipulation were brought forth by Ghulam Rasool of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). He contended that while his party’s candidates appeared victorious on the Form 45s, the results were subsequently altered on the Form 47s, leading to discrepancies in the declared outcomes.
The Supreme Court’s judgment highlighted that ballot papers serve as the fundamental evidence of election results. Forms 45 and 47, which compile vote counts from polling stations and consolidate results across constituencies, respectively, are not definitive if a recount is initiated. The ruling emphasized that a recount should be conducted transparently, with all parties present to ensure fairness and accountability.
During the proceedings, the court heard testimonies from presiding officers, allowing the parties involved to cross-examine them. Despite extensive scrutiny, no credible evidence was presented to support Rasool’s claims of wrongdoing. The court noted that even after a recount, the leading candidate maintained a significant margin over Rasool, reaffirming the integrity of the election process.
This ruling is particularly significant in the current political climate, where allegations of electoral fraud have become increasingly common. By prioritizing ballot papers, the Supreme Court reinforced the notion that the actual votes cast are the ultimate determinant of electoral legitimacy. This decision not only upholds the principles of democratic governance but also serves as a reminder of the judiciary’s role in safeguarding electoral integrity and ensuring that the voices of the electorate are accurately reflected in the results. As nations grapple with similar challenges, this ruling can serve as a precedent for maintaining the sanctity of democratic processes worldwide.
