Vote count begins as polling for general elections end in Pakistan

The crucial vote count has started after the end of polling in the 12th general election in Pakistan, the largest in the nation's history due to a record number of registered voters.

However, individuals present within the premises of the polling station after 5pm were allowed to cast their votes.

As per ECP officials, the final unofficial results are expected to be broadcast after 6 pm.

Today marks a crucial day for Pakistan's democracy as over 128 million poeple were registered to cast their ballots to elect representatives from among 28,626 candidates across 150 parties, competing for seats in the National Assembly and provincial assemblies.

Earlier today, reports of delays  and equipment malfunctions at hundreds of polling stations across the country surfaced on social media, raising concerns about the election’s outcome.

Voters expressed anger and disappointment after waiting in long lines due to the disorganisation at the polling booths. 

In Punjab's Gujranwala, Chakwal, and Sadiqabad, 10 people were injured during a clash between workers of different political parties.

Additionally, two individuals sustained injuries in a confrontation between workers of two political parties in the Lakki Marwat area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).

In the Nasirabad district of Balochistan, three people were injured during a scuffle.