ISLAMABAD: The major opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Monday levelled serious allegations against the ruling coalition and its “handlers,” accusing them of using coercion and intimidation to derail its campaign ahead of the 7 June elections in Gilgit-Baltistan.

The party claimed that its senior leadership, including MNAs, senators, and Secretary General Salman Akram Raja, were systematically prevented from travelling to the region, describing the situation as “selective tyranny” by federal authorities.

PTI further alleged that Gilgit-Baltistan has effectively been turned into a no-go area for its leaders, while rival PML-N and PPP leaders are carrying out unrestricted election campaigns without obstruction.

According to the party, its candidates are facing sweeping restrictions, including repeated denials of permission for rallies and public gatherings – conditions it says clearly expose who is controlling the electoral environment in GB.

The party also said its acting chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan was only conditionally permitted to travel to GB, but was barred from holding any election rallies, a move it termed “shameful.”

PTI condemned the recent expulsion of senior leaders, including Asad Qaiser and Junaid Akbar, along with others lawmakers, from Gilgit-Baltistan, where they were scheduled to address election rallies.

In contrast, the party pointed out that PML-N leader Khawaja Saad Rafique continues to hold rallies without apparent restrictions, while PPP leaders – partners in the ruling coalition – are also actively campaigning.

PTI further alleged that its candidates are being pressured to withdraw in favour of ruling coalition parties, calling it “government-sponsored blackmail.”

The party also claimed police raids on the homes of its supporters, including those of MNA Shahid Khattak and candidate Ateeq Peerzada, forcing Khattak into hiding.

It criticised the deployment of 6,000 Punjab Police personnel in Gilgit-Baltistan, warning that such a move could heighten regional tensions.

“Gilgit-Baltistan is a highly sensitive region. The deployment of force risks deepening divisions and undermining trust in the electoral process,” the party said.

The party reiterated that it would continue its campaign, describing the authorities’ actions as a “daylight heist of the people’s mandate” and

warning that history would ultimately hold those responsible to account.—ZULFIQAR AHMAD