Sindh LG Polls.

The second phase of the local government elections in Sindh finally wrapped up after many delays thanks to the ECP's steadfastness, and the results that have come in are interesting if not entirely surprising, and also highlight a couple of key trends to watch out for in the run: up to the general elections. While allegations of rigging and the low turnout are concerning issues that need to be addressed to restore the confidence and legitimacy of local elections, it was good to see that there were no untoward incidents that took place.

This election was also important because Karachi had been without elected representation at the local level for nearly two and a half years. While party supporters were confident of this, the fact that the PPP emerged as the largest party in Hyderabad, and particularly Karachi, came as a surprise to some. This result will definitely bolster the party in the run: up to the general elections, at the same time however, the JI's strong performance in Karachi as it secured the second: highest number of seats will definitely be a point of concern. The JI's success is not just a testament to Hafiz Naeem's impressive grassroots campaigning, but also indicative of how Karachi is an extremely unpredictable playing field where its residents continue to yearn...