Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political and Public Affairs Rana Sanaullah has said he is willing to resign if it is proven that even one vote was rigged in the PP-116 by-election in Punjab. Speaking on Samaa TV’s programme “Red Line with Talat Hussain,” he said the turnout of almost 50,000 votes in a by-election shows strong public participation.
Sanaullah argued that claims of vote manipulation do not match the actual numbers. He said that out of 48,000 total votes, around 15,000 were cast by people who previously supported PTI, which he believes shows the process was fair.
He also criticised the opposition’s confrontational tone, especially allegations tied to supposed plans of “attacking Islamabad.” He questioned how the government could be blamed if the opposition chose such a style of politics. Sanaullah said the government never encouraged violence, including incidents linked to May 9, and stressed that accountability is necessary to prevent such actions from happening again.
Commenting on PTI’s current political strength, Sanaullah said the party still has supporters, but they appear willing only to vote rather than join rallies or protests. He pointed out that recent PTI demonstrations drew no more than 100 to 150 people, suggesting weakening street power.
Sanaullah also mentioned that low turnout hurt PTI in some constituencies during the 2024 general elections. He added that many people have taken note of the Punjab chief minister’s performance and governance efforts. Although he described himself as critical of CCD, he said the overall administration has improved public confidence.
