Two bomb explosions occurred near candidates’ offices in the Pakistani province of Balochistan, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least 28 individuals and leaving dozens wounded.
The first blast, which took place in Pishin district, north of Quetta city, claimed the lives of 16 people. Subsequently, a second explosion in Qila Saifullah to the east resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals. These attacks occurred on the eve of general elections and have raised concerns about the security and integrity of the electoral process.
The violence has further marred an already contentious electoral period, marked by allegations of poll-rigging and the disqualification of former Prime Minister Imran Khan from contesting. The bombings have occurred in the resource-rich province of Balochistan, which has a history of violence and a prolonged struggle for greater autonomy. The region has also been a hotspot for various armed groups, including Islamist militants such as the Pakistani Taliban (TTP).
The attacks, for which no immediate claim has been made, have prompted heightened security measures, with authorities pledging to bolster security at polling stations. The incidents have underscored the challenges of ensuring a peaceful and secure electoral process in the face of persistent violence and security threats.
