PML-N hailed for ‘open-heartedly’ accepting by-poll defeat | The Express Tribune

The by-polls in Punjab on Sunday caught many by surprise as the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) witnessed a shock defeat in the crucial elections.

However, what followed has actually set precedence for rival political parties in terms of their reaction to their defeat. One of such instances was evident when a losing candidate representing the PML-N was seen felicitating his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) opponent on winning the polls.

The gesture, something rare in the national political landscape, was termed “exemplary” by social media users. The credit rightfully goes to the party’s leaders as they say it trickles down to the masses.

PML-N stalwart Khawaja Asif also congratulated the Imran Khan-led party for securing victory in the by-elections.

In a Twitter post, Asif said the ruling party ensured transparent elections in the province and guarded upon the “sanctity of public opinion”.

Earlier today, PML-N Vice-President Maryam Nawaz also took to the micro-blogging website and asked her party to accept the elections results.

“One should bow before the decision of the people. Winning and losing is the part of the politics,” she added.

Maryam also called for carrying out introspection, saying efforts should be made to identify and overcome shortcomings. “God willing, everything will be fine.”

The PTI has emerged victorious in majority of the seats in today’s big test. According to the unofficial and inconclusive results, the Imran Khan-led party has secured 11 seats while it has a clear lead in five other constituencies.

The former ruling party won Multan, Muzaffargarh, Dera Ghazi Khan, Sahiwal, Khushab, Sheikhupura, Jhang and two other provincial assembly seats.

According to the unofficial and inconclusive results received so far, PML-N won only one of the four seats in Lahore while it has an advantage in two other constituencies.

In a major upset, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf won three out of four constituencies in Lahore in today’s by-elections.