The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has instructed the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to conduct new intra-party elections if it intends to participate with the "bat" symbol in the upcoming February 8 elections. The commission, in a reserved verdict, mandated the PTI to organize fresh elections within a 20-day timeframe, requiring the submission of results within a week after the polls.
In its verdict, the ECP expressed dissatisfaction with the PTI's failure to conduct transparent and fair intra-party elections, deeming them objectionable and controversial. The commission rejected the legitimacy of the PTI's previous intra-party polls and directed the party to hold new elections, with a seven-day deadline for submission of records.
The ECP warned of severe consequences if the PTI fails to comply with the directive within the stipulated 20-day period, emphasizing that the party would lose eligibility for its election symbol in the absence of intra-party elections. This development comes after the ECP had issued notices to the PTI on August 2 for its failure to hold intra-party polls, with the verdict being reserved on September 13.
The PTI, facing challenges with its leadership, including figures such as Chairman Imran Khan, Deputy Shah Mahmood Qureshi, and Party President Pervaiz Elahi, who are either incarcerated or have distanced themselves from the party, awaits the implications of the ECP's decision.
Despite the ECP's verdict, PTI lawyer Barrister Gohar expressed disappointment and alleged that the announcement was delayed for a specific purpose. Gohar asserted that the bat symbol would remain with the PTI and vowed to challenge the order through appropriate channels.
In a media talk, Gohar emphasized that Imran Khan, as the PTI chairman, could participate in intra-party polls, dismissing any disqualification as per Articles 62 and 63. He argued that Imran Khan had not been disqualified, maintaining eligibility for all offices and confirming the chairman's intent to contest the election in accordance with party instructions.
