Ghizer, Gilgit-Baltistan: An independent candidate contesting the upcoming Gilgit-Baltistan elections has lodged a protest after allegedly being assigned a different election symbol than the one he had originally received.
According to local media reports, Nawaz Khan Naji, an independent candidate from GBA-19 (Ghizer-I), has expressed concern over what he describes as confusion regarding his election symbol just days before polling.
Candidate Claims Symbol Was Changed
Speaking about the issue, Nawaz Khan Naji said that his election symbol had initially been allotted as “Eye”, but he later found that he had been assigned the symbol “Suitcase” instead.
He argued that the sudden change has created uncertainty among voters and campaign workers at a crucial stage of the election campaign.
Election symbols play a particularly important role in Pakistan’s electoral process, helping voters identify candidates on ballot papers, especially in areas where literacy levels vary.
Concern Over Timing
The candidate emphasized that only a few days remain before the election, making any change in electoral identification a significant concern.
According to Naji, officials are now reportedly discussing the possibility of restoring the “Eye” symbol, but he believes the matter should have been resolved much earlier.
He warned that confusion regarding the symbol could affect voter awareness and campaign activities in the final days leading up to polling.
Allegations of Obstacles in Election Process
Nawaz Khan Naji further alleged that difficulties were being created in the electoral process that could potentially hinder his participation in the contest.
He claimed that such issues could negatively affect his campaign and urged the relevant authorities to clarify the matter immediately.
“The issue regarding the election symbol should be resolved without delay,” he said, stressing the importance of transparency and certainty in the electoral process.
Importance of Election Symbols
In Pakistan and Gilgit-Baltistan elections, election symbols are a key part of the voting system. Candidates and political parties use symbols extensively in campaign materials, banners, posters, and voter outreach efforts.
A change or dispute involving a symbol shortly before an election can create confusion among supporters and voters who have become familiar with a particular identifier.
For independent candidates especially, symbols often serve as one of the most recognizable elements of their campaign.
Awaiting Official Clarification
Election authorities have not yet publicly detailed the circumstances surrounding the alleged discrepancy. It remains to be seen whether officials will formally restore the “Eye” symbol or provide another resolution to the dispute.
The candidate has called for an immediate clarification so that voters in GBA-19 Ghizer-I can clearly identify their preferred candidate when casting their ballots.
As the Gilgit-Baltistan election campaign enters its final phase, the controversy has drawn attention to the importance of administrative accuracy and clear communication in ensuring a smooth and transparent electoral process.
About The Author
