Islamabad, Pakistan — A powerful explosion, suspected to be a suicide bombing, devastated a political gathering in the northwestern Pakistani district of Bajaur on Sunday, resulting in the death of at least 54 people and injury to over 150. The incident has shocked the nation as it gears up for elections slated for later this year.

The convention, organized by the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), a prominent Islamist party, was underway in the town of Khar near the Afghanistan border when the attacker detonated explosives near the main stage, as reported by Shaukat Abbas, the deputy inspector general of police. Among the deceased, 12 were identified as children aged 12 and below. Maulana Ziaullah, a regional leader of the political group, was also reported among the dead.

This deadly event, coming at the beginning of campaign preparations, has been regarded by many as a chilling message to the Pakistani political establishment. Police officials have acknowledged that the JUI-F, known for its pro-Taliban stance and advocacy for Sharia law enforcement, was the likely target of the attack. In previous instances, the local branch of ISIS has targeted JUI-F party leaders, whom they view as apostates.

Witnesses recounted the horrific scene where a serene political rally turned into chaos in a matter of seconds. Rahim Shah and Adam Khan, who were present at the gathering, shared harrowing tales of the explosion knocking them unconscious, people screaming, and finding themselves amidst dust, smoke, and scattered limbs.

Despite the presence of volunteer party members providing security at the event, the attacker managed to infiltrate the rally. Local officials speculate that the bomber timed the attack to coincide with the arrival of high-ranking party leaders.

Reacting to the incident, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif “strongly condemned” the blast and has requested a detailed report from Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, signaling an immediate investigation into the gruesome act. An emergency health protocol has been activated in Bajaur due to the high number of casualties and injuries.

JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, expressed his deep sorrow and urged the federal and provincial governments to ensure the best treatment for the injured. He also called for peace among the JUI-F workers and appealed to them to donate blood for the victims.

So far, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. This catastrophic event underscores the grim reality of the persistent threat from extremist factions in the region, posing significant challenges to political stability and peace. As the country mourns the loss of innocent lives, it simultaneously braces for an unpredictable election season.

This story was written by Newslly unbiased AI news reporter.