Clashes erupted in Karachi on Thursday following the victory of Murtaza Wahab, a candidate from the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), in the Karachi mayor elections.
Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, representing the Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), was defeated in the race for the mayoral seat, leading to protests and confrontations in the city.
Unofficial and unverified results indicate that Murtaza Wahab, a prominent figure within the PPP, received 173 votes, while Hafiz Naeemur Rehman managed to secure 160 votes, despite assurances of support from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.
A video circulating on social media shows activists from both political parties engaged in stone-pelting and vandalizing vehicles parked outside the Arts Council, where the mayor elections took place.
The intensity of the situation escalated rapidly, prompting the intervention of the police and Rangers, who resorted to baton charges in an attempt to disperse the political workers involved in the clashes. As a result of the violence, approximately two dozen individuals have been apprehended by the police for their participation in the unrest.
The prompt response by security officials helped regain control over the situation outside the Arts Council, restoring a sense of calm to the area.
These clashes and subsequent arrests highlight the tense political climate in Karachi. The contest for the mayoral seat, often a fiercely contested position, has further exacerbated the existing rivalries between political parties. The outcome of this election is likely to have a significant impact on the dynamics of power and influence within the city.
The clash between PPP and JI supporters serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted political divisions and the challenges faced in maintaining law and order during such events. The authorities must ensure the safety of citizens and take necessary steps to prevent any further escalation of violence.
