ECP reserves verdict on reference against PMLN MNA

ECP sought a written response from PTI Senator Saifullah Abro on the issue of the inadmissibility of the disqualification reference

By Our Correspondent

November 13, 2024

A security personnel stands guard at the headquarters of Election Commission of Pakistan in Islamabad on September 21, 2023. — AFP

ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) Tuesday reserved its decision on a reference filed to declare the seat vacant by disqualifying PMLN MNA from Quetta, Adil Bazai, over alleged defection.

The ECP resumed hearing in the three disqualification references filed against two PTI and one PML-N parliamentarian. The hearing on Bazai’s disqualification reference was held here by a three-member commission headed by Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja.

The PML-N lawyer said he believes that Bazai first joined the Pakistan Muslim League (N) and later, joined another party. Why did he find out after 11 months that the affidavit was fake? Later, the Election Commission reserved the decision.

Meanwhile, the Election Commission sought a written response from PTI Senator Saifullah Abro on the issue of the inadmissibility of the disqualification reference. The ECP’s three-member bench also heard the reference against Senator Saifullah Abro by PPP’s Shahadat Awan and one Amjad Mahmud. PTI lawmaker’s lawyer took the position that this reference against his client is not admissible. The Chief Election Commissioner directed the lawyer to first submit a written response and file an application regarding inadmissibility. Afterwards, the Election Commission adjourned the hearing until December 3.

Similarly, Amjad Mahmud’s lawyer submitted his power of attorney to the forum. Without holding a hearing into the reference against PTI MNA from Swat, Sohail Sultan, the issue was adjourned without announcing the next date because of the stay granted by a high court.

Meanwhile, former federal Minister Fawad Chaudhry apologised in the third case of contempt of the Election Commission before the ECP bench here. Fawad said that he has apologized in two (similar) cases and that he is moving around the anti-terrorism courts all over Pakistan. To this, the Chief Election Commissioner asked him to submit a written response. Later, the Election Commission adjourned the hearing till December 10.