Shakeup in Rawalpindi: New Commissioner Appointed After Rigging Claims
Rawalpindi: Liaquat Ali Chatha, the previous Rawalpindi Commissioner, has been transferred after his explosive accusations of election rigging in the February 8th polls. He has been directed to report to the Services and General Administration Department.
New Commissioner Takes Charge: In his place, Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) Director General Saif Anwar Jappa has been given the additional charge of Rawalpindi Commissioner. Importantly, Jappa has vehemently denied all allegations of election manipulation, emphasizing that his predecessor’s role was solely one of coordination during the voting process.
Resignation and Allegations: Chatha’s resignation came amidst claims of widespread rigging in the Rawalpindi elections, which he admitted to and said caused “injustice to the people.”
Transparency Assured: Jappa held a press conference alongside District Returning Officers (DROs) from various districts, assuring the public of the elections’
‘ fairness and transparency. The DROs dismissed Chatha’s claims, emphasizing the absence of external influence and undue pressure during the voting process.
Investigation Demanded: Despite the denials, Jappa called for a comprehensive inquiry into the rigging allegations, stating, “I refute the allegations made by the former commissioner and advocate for a thorough investigation into the matter.”
Prior Action: Before his appointment as Commissioner, Jappa had already convened an emergency meeting with DROs to assess the situation following Chatha’s bombshell claims.
This sudden change and ongoing investigation highlight the seriousness of the rigging accusations and the ongoing efforts to ensure electoral integrity in Rawalpindi.
