Polling stations have opened their doors in Pakistan in a general election that has already been marred by violence and allegations of fraud.
On the eve of the election on Thursday. Bombs hit two political offices in southwestern Pakistankilling at least 30 people.
Tens of thousands of police and paramilitary forces were deployed at polling stations to ensure security.
Mobile phone service was also suspended across the country in what the government described as a “security measure.”
Explaining: The problems facing Pakistan while voters go to the polls
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Pakistani elections explained
The Pakistani Interior Ministry said: “As a result of the recent incidents of terrorism in the country, precious lives have been lost, and security measures are necessary to maintain law and order and deal with potential threats, hence the temporary suspension of mobile phone services across the country.” The ministry said in a post on the X website.
Tensions rose in the country before the vote.
Former cricketer turned politician Imran KhanThe Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founder and former prime minister of the country remains the country's most popular politician, according to opinion polls.
However, last week, Khan was given multiple prison sentences over a series of charges, Among them is corruption, Leaking state secretsAnd Violating the country's marriage lawsAnd prevented from participating in the vote.
A poll worker enters a polling station while a police officer stands guard. Photo: Reuters
Women wait outside the polling station to start voting. Photo: Reuters
Khan's arrest for the first time last year sparked violent protests in Pakistan.
The 71-year-old, who was ousted from power in a vote of no confidence in April 2022, claimed the charges were politically motivated.
His party PTI also claimed that its candidates were denied a fair opportunity to campaign in the run-up to the vote.
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Pakistan bombings left dozens dead
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Meanwhile, several groups, including the militant Islamist Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and separatist groups from Balochistan, which oppose the Pakistani state, have carried out a series of attacks in recent months.
As many as 44 political parties are competing for a share of the 266 seats to be contested in the National Assembly, or lower house of parliament.
An additional 70 seats were reserved for women and minorities in the 336-seat council.
Whoever forms the nuclear-armed country's government will face enormous challenges, from containing the unrest, dealing with the military establishment that wields significant influence over Pakistan's political system, overcoming the country's ongoing economic crisis, and calming escalating tensions with neighbors, including India.
