239 candidates vying for 23 vacant seats in Pakistan's by-elections, including six in NA

In anticipation of the upcoming by-elections on April 21, Pakistan braces itself for a political showdown as candidates gear up to contest for 23 vacant seats across the national and provincial assemblies.

A diverse array of candidates, totaling 239 in number, are set to compete in the forthcoming by-elections. Among them, 50 individuals are contending for vacant seats in the National Assembly.

The by-elections span six National Assembly seats, twelve Punjab Assembly seats, two seats in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, one seat in the Sindh Assembly, and two seats in the Balochistan Assembly.

Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, daughter of incumbent Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari, has already secured her position unopposed for NA 207, signaling early victories amidst the electoral fervor, Karachi-based ARY News reported.

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Additionally, Zubair Ahmed Junejo clinched his seat unchallenged on PS-80 in Sindh.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has diligently coordinated with relevant authorities to ensure a seamless electoral process. From the printing of ballot papers to the distribution of election materials, meticulous preparations have been underway to uphold the integrity and efficiency of the electoral proceedings, an official from the ECP told ARY News.

PTI remains optimistic

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) remains optimistic about its prospects in the upcoming by-elections, with PTI's Punjab Information Secretary Shaukat Mehmood Basra expressing confidence in the party's ability to secure victories.

“PTI candidates will sweep all the seats, including Lahore,” Lahore-based newspaper The Nation quoted Basra.

Highlighting the resonance of PTI founder and jailed former Pakistan premier Imran Khan's leadership, PTI-backed candidates are actively engaging with constituents, rallying support, and conveying the party's message door-to-door.

With a focus on key constituencies, including Lahore, PTI aims to leverage public sentiment and capitalise on the electorate's historic support for the party.