PTI’s social media strategy pays off as candidates successfully file nomination papers

Party supporters shared instances of harassment, prompting party chairman to instantly pursue legal action

ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)'s social media strategy proved pivotal as it paved the way for party candidates to successfully submit their nomination papers for the upcoming general elections.

Facing initial resistance since the commencement of the nomination papers' submission process, on December 20, the PTI candidates effectively utilised social media platforms. Supporters shared instances of harassment against party candidates, prompting the party's new chairman, Barrister Gohar Khan, to pursue legal action.

Represented by lawyer Shoaib Shaheen, the PTI swiftly filed a constitutional petition in the Supreme Court (SC), seeking a 'level-playing field' in the elections.

Remarkably, the petition was expedited for a hearing a day after it was filed. During the hearing, the bench, led by acting Chief Justice of Pakistan Sardar Tariq Masood, questioned the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for not ensuring a level playing field for the PTI.

Consequently, a written order was issued, directing the ECP to address the grievances of PTI candidates and ensure a fair electoral environment.

Simultaneously, the bench also granted bail to both PTI's founding chairman Imran Khan and former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in the cypher case. Justice Athar Minallah emphasised in an additional note that their release on bail during the election period would guarantee "genuine elections," allowing people to express their will effectively.

Read PTI overcomes challenges in nomination papers

The apex court, currently under the leadership of Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, is keen on maintaining the institution's image, aiming to avoid accusations of political engineering as occurred in the 2018 general elections. Following the SC hearing, the PTI was also given relief by the Lahore High Court (LHC), enabling its candidates to successfully submit their nomination papers.

PTI lawyer Abuzar Salman Niazi, expressing gratitude for the intervention of Justice Ali Baqar Najfi, announced on social media that, "By the grace of Allah and the active intervention of Justice Ali Baqar Najfi, we were able to file almost 90 percent of nomination cases." Despite hurdles from the Punjab police, Niazi assured those unable to file nomination papers that appropriate action will be taken.

Even detained PTI lawyer Hassaan Niazi, accused in the May 9 incidents involving an attack on military installations, received a directive from the LHC to sign his nomination papers.

However, the ongoing debate questions why the PTI candidates secured relief from the LHC, with one lawyer emphasising the fundamental right of every citizen to submit nomination papers for elections.

Looking ahead, the scrutiny of nomination papers will play a crucial role. The Returning Officers (ROs) will continue scrutiny until December 30, followed by the filing of appeals, if any, against the ROs' decisions before the appellate tribunals.

The PTI candidates anticipate challenges to their nomination papers, particularly regarding revenue and tax records. Disputes arising from these elections will likely be adjudicated in superior courts, with the SC's role remaining significant for the PTI.