ECP bench seeks additional evidence in case against Gilani

Official says bench should take forward the petitions towards a decision.

ISLAMABAD:

A three-member bench of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) sought additional evidence on the petitions filed for the disqualification of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Senator Yousuf Raza Gilani and his son, Ali Haider Gilani over a video scandal.

Heading the bench, ECP Punjab member Altaf Ibrahim Qureshi observed that it was the last hearing conducted by the current bench before his retirement. He stressed that the bench could take forward the petitions towards a decision.

Two members of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Captain (retd) Jameel and Faheem Khan appeared before the bench. Gilani’s lawyer argued that the affidavit had to be signed by both of them. Jamil told the bench that they are ready to sign now.

Read AGP concludes arguments on Gilani’s appeal

Qureshi said that when the PTI members were admitting to their signatures then why prolong the matter any further. He observed that it was now up to the commission to provide any additional documents or evidence.

Counsel for the petitioners sought one-day time to submit additional evidence. However, Gilani’s lawyer objected to the offer of additional evidence. He said that the matter could not be exceeded beyond the points raised in the petition. Later, the hearing was adjourned till September 20.