Karachi: At least 25 individuals lost their lives, with 42 others sustaining injuries, as two devastating bomb explosions targeted election offices in Balochistan province, Pakistan, on Wednesday. These attacks occurred just a day prior to the general elections in the country, adding to concerns in a nation with a history of political turmoil.
The initial explosion occurred outside the office of independent candidate Asfandyar Khan Kakar in Pishin district, resulting in 17 fatalities and 30 injuries. Shortly thereafter, another blast rocked the election office of Jamiat-Ulema Islam-Pakistan in the Killa Abdullah area, claiming eight lives and leaving 12 wounded.
According to Abdullah Zehri, a senior police official in Balochistan’s Panjgur, the first explosion was triggered remotely, concealed within a bag placed outside Kakar’s office. Zehri emphasized the critical condition of several injured individuals, who were promptly transported to Quetta for urgent medical attention. He expressed concern that the death toll might rise as further assessments are made.
“Terrorists are targeting election candidates to discourage voter turnout, but security measures are being escalated to ensure the elections proceed as planned,” stated Zehri, acknowledging the efforts to safeguard the electoral process amidst threats of violence.
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) confirmed the two bombings and assured the public of heightened security measures for Thursday’s elections. A spokesperson for the ECP vowed to apprehend and punish the perpetrators behind these terror attacks.
Balochistan’s Home Minister Jan Achakzai condemned the assaults, reaffirming the government’s commitment to conducting the elections on schedule. Despite the tragic incidents in Pishin and Qilla Saifullah, Achakzai underscored the resilience of the democratic process and pledged to combat terrorism relentlessly.
Caretaker Interior Minister Gohar Ejaz denounced the blast outside Kakar’s election office, extending condolences to the bereaved families. The attacks occurred amidst extensive security arrangements ahead of the elections, underscoring the persistent challenges posed by violence in Balochistan.
In the lead-up to the general elections, Balochistan has witnessed heightened violence, including grenade attacks on security posts, campaign offices, and rallies. Outlawed separatist groups in the region continue to target security forces and government installations, escalating tensions in the province.
Despite these challenges, authorities remain determined to uphold the electoral process and ensure the safety of candidates and voters. However, the recent attacks serve as a stark reminder of the persistent security threats confronting Pakistan’s democratic institutions.
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