Pakistan tallies election results after tense day of polling

Vote overshadowed by sidelining of Imran Khan's party, internet cuts, militant attacks

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A man casts his vote during the general elections in Karachi, Pakistan, on Feb. 8. © Reuters

ADNAN AAMIR, Contributing writer

ISLAMABAD -- Pakistanis voted Thursday in long-awaited elections marred by deadly attacks and widespread internet disruptions, amid concerns over possible manipulation.

Polling stations closed at 5 p.m. local time, after nine hours of voting, although those already in line would be allowed to cast their ballots. The country observed a national holiday to let 128 million eligible citizens have their say. But just as citizens began going to the polls, mobile services were cut off across much of the country -- a move authorities said was for security.

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