Islamabad: Liaquat Ali Chattha, the former commissioner of Rawalpindi, has publicly apologized to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for levelling false allegations of rigging during the 2024 general election. In a significant reversal, Chattha retracted all his previous claims regarding electoral irregularities and expressed deep remorse for his actions.
In a confessional letter, Chattha, who served in various prestigious positions within the civil services of Punjab for 23 years, including his final role as Commissioner of Rawalpindi, acknowledged the gravity of his false accusations. He stated, “I feel extremely ashamed and embarrassed for making a false, concocted, anti-state, and malicious statement in the press conference.”
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Furthermore, he expressed regret for tarnishing not only his own reputation but also that of the entire bureaucratic fraternity, recognizing the damage caused by his actions. Liaquat Ali Chattha took full responsibility for his statements and expressed willingness to face any legal consequences, stating, “I take full responsibility for my actions and surrender myself before the authorities for any kind of legal action.”
This public apology marks a significant moment in acknowledging the importance of integrity and accountability within the civil services and highlights the consequences of making baseless allegations, particularly in matters as critical as electoral processes. Chattha’s apology serves as a reminder of the ethical responsibilities incumbent upon public officials and the necessity of upholding the integrity of democratic institutions.