PTI rejects Babar's claims of ‘sham’ party polls

Former party leader accused of conspiring against PTI's election participation

LAHORE:

The PTI has labeled the “sudden appearance” of Akbar S Babar, one of the alleged founding members, on the day of its intra-party elections and his subsequent challenge to these polls as a conspiracy aimed at obstructing the former ruling party from partaking in the upcoming general elections.

The party issued a statement on Tuesday following Babar's challenge to what he deemed “sham and deceitful” party elections held on December 2 by filing a petition in the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), the polls oversight authority.

Babar urged the ECP to order new intra-party elections and appoint a neutral third party to monitor the polls. He also requested the commission to restrict the PTI's use of the “bat” symbol until transparent elections are held.

Responding to this, a PTI spokesperson emphasized the country's need for political stability and stressed that transparent and fair elections are crucial to navigate through crises.

The spokesperson highlighted the importance of all political parties participating equally and fairly in the electoral process for credible and dignified elections, noting that PTI represents millions of Pakistanis as the largest party in the country. He claimed that transparent elections could be compromised if the PTI or its leadership were barred from participation.

"The nation recognizes attempts to sideline the PTI. Akbar S Babar's sudden appearance is part of this series of events," the spokesperson remarked.

Stressing the importance of impartiality within the ECP for democracy's strength and election transparency, he urged the commission not to be influenced by disruptive groups and unfounded demands.

The statement clarified that the party had expelled Babar and revoked his membership in 2011, following all legal procedures. The spokesperson labeled Babar's petition as part of a conspiracy to misguide the ECP by a “malignant and mischievous tout”.

He said despite its reservations, the PTI conducted intra-party elections according to its constitution and laws, completing the legal process by submitting documents to relevant authorities.
"It is the ECP's responsibility to prevent false statements from a liar and forger concerning a matter already under commission’s consideration," he added.