The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has reached a decision on the disqualification case of the former Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), resolving to retain the case’s confidentiality. The hearing, chaired by Chief Election Commissioner Sikander Sultan Raja, included a five-member bench.
The legal counsel for the former PTI Chairman, Shoaib Shaheen, appeared before the Election Commission to present arguments. Shaheen emphasized that they have submitted the record of intra-party elections to the Election Commission and urged a swift conclusion to the case, asserting its legal resolution.
Shoaib Shaheen stated that the case should now be considered closed, as the party has a new chairman. He added that legally, the matter has reached its conclusion. He suggested that if there is any desire to pursue the case further, Akbar Ayub Babar, the petitioner, is already submitting a petition. Shaheen also reminded the commission that if they wish to continue, Khaled Mahmood has the opportunity to file a petition against the new chairman.
In response, Chief Election Commissioner Sikander Sultan Raja concurred that they are giving Khaled Mahmood the opportunity to file a petition against the new chairman. The decision indicates that the Election Commission is considering the case settled from a legal standpoint, signaling a potential closure to the chapter of the former PTI Chairman’s disqualification. However, the matter of the removal of the former chairman from the party’s position remains pending, awaiting further developments.
The decision by the Election Commission holds significance, not just for the individual case but also for the internal dynamics of PTI. It underscores the legal aspects of intra-party elections and may set a precedent for future cases related to party leadership and intra-party disputes within the political landscape of Pakistan.
