ECP rejects plea seeking Fawad Hasan’s removal

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has rejected a petition seeking to remove caretaker Federal Minister for Privatization and Inter-Provincial Coordination Fawad Hasan Fawad.

The directive came in response to a plea filed by Advocate Syed Azizuddin Kakakhel, who sought the removal of perceived 'biased' members of the federal cabinet to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections scheduled for February 8.

The petition argued that the presence of certain individuals in the caretaker government would compromise the transparency of the upcoming elections.

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ECP`s decision clarified that the plea against Fawad appeared to stem from a “personal vendetta” and the alleged political association was not substantiated.

However, the verdict passed by the ECP today highlighted Fawad's strong reputation as a bureaucrat. Earlier, the ECP had removed Prime Minister's Advisor Ahad Cheema due to similar allegations.

Fawad also served as principal secretary to ex-premier Nawaz Sharif. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB), accused Fawad of corruption and owning illegal assets worth billions of rupees. However, he was acquitted of all charges.