As the nation approaches the general elections, political tensions are escalating with each passing day. Political parties are actively engaged in power demonstrations, each vying for supremacy in the upcoming polls. The focus of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples’ Party (PPP) is predominantly in Punjab, the province with the largest number of seats, which holds significant sway over the formation of the next government.
Historically, Punjab has been a battleground for intense political rivalries between the PPP and the PML-N. However, in recent times, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) emerged victorious in Punjab under the leadership of Imran Khan, albeit with subsequent challenges and a no-confidence motion against Khan's government after 16 months in power. With the disintegration of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), a new political player, the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP), has entered the political arena.
Abdul Aleem Khan, the president of the newly formed Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP), has undertaken the responsibility of addressing public issues and has presented a promising manifesto for relief. Currently, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the IPP are actively collaborating to contest elections across Punjab. Lahore, hosting the most significant political showdown in Pakistan, sees leaders like Mian Nawaz Sharif, Mian Shehbaz Sharif, Mian Hamza Shehbaz, Maryam Nawaz, Abdul Aleem Khan, and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari vying for supremacy.
Abdul Aleem Khan, the President of the IPP, is notably engaging in energetic gatherings across various constituencies, including his ancestral seat NA-117. Traditionally held by PML-N's Malik Riaz for 15 years from 2008 to 2023, NA-117 is now contested by Abdul Aleem Khan due to seat adjustments. The constituency, grappling with public issues, awaits the outcome of pending appeals.
The political landscape in Lahore witnesses fervent activities, with candidates from major parties and independents vying for dominance. Abdul Aleem Khan's proactive engagements underscore the IPP's determination to address public concerns and secure electoral success amidst a competitive environment.
NA-117 Lahore-I serves as a constituency for the National Assembly of Pakistan, encompassing historic areas of Lahore, including Shahdara, Ravi Road, Timber Market, Baigum Kot, and Badami Bagh. The constituency has 520,453 registered voters, comprising 282,202 male voters and 238,251 female voters.
Over the years, the constituency's designation has changed, previously being NA-121 in 2018 and NA-118 in the 2008 and 2013 elections. The current National Assembly member is vacant, following the resignation of Muhammad Riaz Malik from PML-N in December 2023, as he joined the newly formed Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM).
PML-N has traditionally held sway in NA-117 since 2008 when Muhammad Riaz Malik secured victory against PPP's Syed Asif Hashmi. Malik retained the seat in subsequent elections, defeating PTI's Hamid Zaman in 2013 and Mehar Wajid Azeem of PTI in 2018, albeit with a reduced margin. The upcoming general elections on February 8, 2024, will see key contenders for the NA-117 seat, including Abdul Aleem Khan of Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP), Ali Ijaz Buttar of PTI, Asif Hashmi of PPP, and independent candidate Abrarul Haq.
The registered voter count in NA-117 has seen a substantial increase from 250,850 in 2008 to 520,453 in 2024. Male voters have risen from 136,900 in 2008 to 282,202 in 2024, and female voters from 113,950 in 2008 to 238,251 in 2024. The voter turnout percentage has fluctuated, ranging from 37.72% in 2008 to 51.13% in 2018. The turnout percentage for 2024 is pending, with the general elections scheduled for February 8, 2024.
Led by Abdul Aleem Khan, the IPP has swiftly gained momentum, attracting heavyweight politicians and presenting a promising manifesto aimed at addressing public grievances. Currently, the PML-N and the IPP are joining forces to contest elections across Punjab. Lahore, in particular, emerges as the epicenter of political battles, witnessing fierce competition among prominent leaders such as Nawaz Sharif, Shehbaz Sharif, Hamza Shehbaz, Maryam Nawaz, and Abdul Aleem Khan.
The political landscape of Lahore is further intensified by the presence of candidates supported by Bhutto Zardari and the PTI, adding to the complexity of the electoral contest. As the stakes rise, Lahore becomes the focal point of political maneuvering, where leaders from all major parties clash in a high-stakes political showdown.
Khan, the President of the IPP, has emerged as a prominent figure, actively engaging in gatherings across various constituencies, including NA-117 in the National Assembly and Provincial Assemblies. NA-117, historically dominated by the PML-N for 15 years from 2008 to 2023 under the representation of Malik Riaz, is now contested by Abdul Aleem Khan due to seat adjustments. However, the outcome awaits an appeal.
NA-117 encompasses several significant areas, including Aziz Colony, Vandala Road, Islamnagar, Shahab Park, Ittefaq Colony, Hameed Park, Chattha Park, Khadim Colony and many others. The constituency grapples with pressing issues such as sewage problems, broken roads, inadequate sanitation, and polluted drains. The accumulation of sewage water and garbage in the streets poses health hazards and environmental pollution, reflecting the unresolved challenges faced by the residents.
These issues have fueled frustration among the electorate, who seek tangible solutions from their elected representatives. As the election candidates navigate through the constituency, they encounter the palpable discontent of the populace, eager for meaningful resolutions to their longstanding grievances.
Throughout his political journey, Abdul Aleem Khan has remained dedicated to his native area, particularly the Garhi Shahu locality. Regardless of electoral outcomes, he has consistently focused on addressing the fundamental needs of the people, such as healthcare, road infrastructure, and poverty alleviation. Through initiatives supported by the Abdul Aleem Khan Foundation, he has facilitated access to healthcare services, sponsored road construction projects, and provided assistance to impoverished families, including funding the weddings of their daughters.
Even amidst his current political engagements, Abdul Aleem Khan pledges to extend the developmental projects from his native constituency to other underserved areas like Shahdara. He emphasizes his commitment to equitable distribution of resources and vows to uplift marginalized communities, ensuring that no constituency remains neglected.
In the upcoming elections, Abdul Aleem Khan faces relatively weak opposition candidates, including Ali Buttar, an independent candidate backed by PTI, and Faraz Hashmi, the son of PPP's Asif Hashmi. Observers anticipate Abdul Aleem Khan's victory in this constituency, propelling him into a position of authority within the city.
On the other hand, support for Abdul Aleem Khan extends beyond the national level, with provincial assembly candidates such as PML-N's Ghazli Saleem Butt and Sami Ullah Khan also throwing their weight behind him. Conversely, PTI-backed candidates Junaid Razzak Adv. and Yasir Gillani are among those contesting against Abdul Aleem Khan.
عوام کا انتخاب - جیتے گا عقاب 🦅
— Istehkam-E-Pakistan Party (@istehkamPK) January 28, 2024
صدر استحکام پاکستان پارٹی و امیدوار پی پی 149 عبدالعلیم خان کا وائرلیس کالونی سوامی نگر میں انتخابی جلسے سے خطاب!#Elections2024 #Eagle #8Feb #IstehkamEPakistanParty pic.twitter.com/RpydJtQbNW
Furthermore, numerous independent candidates have already withdrawn from the race in favor of the IPP president, including those affiliated with PML-Q and other political parties. This consolidation of support significantly bolsters Abdul Aleem Khan's prospects in the upcoming elections.
4/4 pic.twitter.com/E7wwSjRH48
— Istehkam-E-Pakistan Party (@istehkamPK) January 24, 2024
Furthermore, there is speculation that Abdul Aleem Khan could emerge as a frontrunner for the Chief Minister of Punjab, particularly if he secures the provincial seat of Maryam Nawaz in NA-119. With Shahbaz Sharif and Nawaz Sharif expected to assume significant roles at the federal level, the responsibility of leading Punjab could potentially fall on Abdul Aleem Khan's shoulders. Amidst uncertainties surrounding the efficacy of Hamza Shahbaz's governance model, the IPP may be entrusted with the task of steering Punjab towards progress and prosperity. While Maryam Nawaz also vies for the same seat, her lack of experience may hinder her chances of securing the strongest mandate.
