General Munir expressed hope that the diverse political landscape of the country would be well-reflected through the formation of a unified government comprising all democratic forces.
State TV, private channels, and local media began announcing results, but progress has been slow, particularly in certain constituencies in Sindh and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
In a joint statement released on Thursday, PTI Chief Organiser Umar Ayub Khan and Parliamentary Leader in Senate Barrister Ali Zafar conveyed appreciation on behalf of Imran Khan, who is currently detained in Adiala Jail.
Tough contest is expected between three mainstream political parties: Pakistan Muslim League – Nawaz, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf and Pakistan People’s Party
The government's decision comes amidst a rise in militant attacks in the run-up to the election and a day after jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan urged his supporters to wait outside polling booths after voting until results are announced.