Rawalpindi Commissioner Liaquat Ali Chatta stunned the nation with a shocking admission on Saturday, as he confessed to his involvement in manipulating election results within the city. He tendered his resignation, urging to be held accountable for his actions, even suggesting capital punishment for the injustice he inflicted upon the Rawalpindi Division.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Chatta disclosed that 13 candidates from Pindi were fraudulently declared winners, revealing that losing candidates were artificially boosted with leads of 50,000 votes. “I have perpetrated injustice upon the Rawalpindi Division,” he declared remorsefully, recounting a moment of desperation where he contemplated suicide after morning prayers but opted instead to reveal the truth to the public.
Acknowledging his role in the electoral malpractice, Chatta surrendered himself to law enforcement, expressing deep regret for tarnishing his legacy and betraying his country. “I cannot find peace knowing the extent of my transgression. I deserve punishment, along with the chief election commissioner and others involved,” he asserted, urging for a comprehensive investigation into the matter.
Chatta further extended his apologies to the returning officers under his command, acknowledging their distress when coerced into participating in the fraudulent activities. He alleged the complicity of high-ranking officials, implicating the chief election commissioner and chief justice in the scandalous electoral fraud.
Despite his admission of guilt, Chatta emphasized the integrity of the military’s conduct during the elections, asserting that the army executed their duties diligently. He dismissed the necessity for re-elections, advocating instead for a thorough examination of Form 45 to reveal the true outcome of the polls.
Election Commission rejected allegations
Reflecting on his contributions to Rawalpindi’s development, Chatta highlighted his tireless efforts in spearheading various infrastructure projects for the city’s progress. However, he expressed an inability to reconcile his dedication to civic improvement with the fraudulent actions he committed, stating his conscience could not abide by the deceit.
In response to Chatta’s allegations, the Election Commission of Pakistan promptly refuted his claims, asserting that no directive was issued by the commission to manipulate election results. The commission vowed to conduct an inquiry into the matter, emphasizing the commissioner’s limited authority in electoral processes.
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Subsequently, Punjab’s caretaker Chief Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, took swift action, ordering a thorough investigation into the allegations. He mandated the formation of a high-level committee to ensure an impartial inquiry and pledged to uncover the truth behind the scandalous revelations.
Chatta’s confession has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, underscoring the imperative for transparency and accountability in electoral processes to safeguard the democratic principles of the nation.