Rehan Zeb Khan, an independent candidate connected to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, was shot and killed on January 31, 2024, in the Bajaur district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, when he was soliciting votes. Concerns about an increase in violence have been raised by this incident in advance of the general elections that are set for February 8, 2024.
Khan was reportedly killed and four people injured when unknown armed persons opened fire on his car when he was campaigning in the Siddiqabad area. There is still no apparent motive behind the attack, and no group has taken credit for it. But the incident has heightened tensions in the area and brought attention to the risks that activists and political candidates face when elections are taking place.
Prior to the elections, there have been previous incidents of violence directed towards political individuals. An Awami National Party (ANP) activist was shot and killed during a campaign event in Balochistan the day before Khan passed away. Because of the climate of fear and intimidation these acts have produced, some candidates have chosen to halt their campaigns out of worry for their safety.
The recent killings have been denounced by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), which has also demanded an expedient investigation. Nonetheless, a lot of detractors contend that the ECP hasn't gone far enough to protect voters and candidates. They draw attention to the dearth of efficient security measures and the sluggish speed of violent crime investigations.
The PTI, led by former prime minister Imran Khan, claims that the attacks were planned by the current administration in an attempt to reduce support for their party. The administration has refuted these accusations and promised to prosecute those responsible.
Rehan Zeb Khan's terrible passing serves as a sobering reminder of how brittle Pakistani democracy is. To guarantee that the next elections are held in a peaceful manner and that the people's will is honored, cooperation amongst all parties involved is essential.