PTI sweeps in Punjab by-elections

 PTI'S victory in Punjab's by-election shakes PML-N confidence

Sunday proves to be glorious day for PTI as she sees her victory over the arch rival Muslim League in 15 constituencies out of 20. 

PTI’s resounding victory had not just jolted the coalition government, led by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) but also shook its hopes of completing the remaining tenure in the office.

Before election day, PML-N was quite confident. Ran Sanaullah, the interior minister said in an interview that PMLN would win the majority of the seats whereas it could only grab 4 seats. 

The by-election on the 20 Punjab Assembly seats were important to decide  whether Hamza will continue as Chief Minister of the the largest province or not. With 15 seats in hand, PTI is likely to defeat Hamza when a recount of votes for the chief minister election takes place on July 22. 

Clashes

A scuffle broke out between PTI and PML-N workers during the polling process in Lahore's constituency PP-158. As a result, one of the PML-N workers sustained a head injury. Meanwhile, PML-N candidate Rana Ahsan Sharafat engaged in a heated argument with PTI leader Jamshed Iqbal Cheema, after which the police apprehended him.

Is PTI's victory in the by-election bellwether for the general election which are due in October,2023? 

It will be unfolded in the coming days but experts say, PTI will like to have new elections as early as possible as she is at heights of popularity. On the other hand PML-N and alliances would like to continue in the federal office which will likely add to the increasing tension.