Polling is currently in progress today (Sunday) in the PP-52 constituency of Sialkot to elect a new member for the Punjab Assembly. This by-election follows the unfortunate demise of PML-N lawmaker Arshad Warraich.
According to the Election Commission of Punjab, voting commenced at 8 AM across the constituency and is scheduled to continue without interruption until 5 PM. Officials confirmed that the polling process began punctually at all designated stations, and all electoral materials were delivered in advance to ensure a seamless voting experience.
A total of 297,185 eligible voters are registered to cast their ballots in this by-election, comprising 157,725 male and 139,460 female voters within the constituency.
The by-poll has garnered considerable attention, with prominent candidates vying for the seat. These include Hina Arshad, the daughter of the late MPA and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) nominee, competing against PTI-backed independent candidate Fakhir Nishat and Pakistan Peoples Party’s (PPP) Raheel Kamran Cheema.
The Election Commissioner of Punjab stated that stringent security measures have been implemented to maintain law and order. Police and Rangers personnel have been deployed across sensitive polling stations.
“Polling is proceeding peacefully, and citizens should come forward to exercise their democratic right without fear,” the commissioner affirmed in a statement, urging voters to fulfill their national responsibility.
The PP-52 seat became vacant in April following the passing of Arshad Warraich, a veteran PML-N leader who had represented the constituency multiple times. His daughter, Hina, is widely perceived as attempting to capitalize on a sympathy vote as the party aims to retain its traditional stronghold.
Both the PTI-backed and PPP candidates have accused the ruling party of utilizing state machinery to influence the electoral process—allegations that the administration has vehemently denied.
