Disqualified as my victory was assured, claims Rashid

Former interior minister and Awami Muslim League (AML) chief Sheikh Rashid Ahmed on Sunday claimed that he was disqualified as his success in the upcoming polls was all but assured.

A day earlier, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) rejected Rashid's nomination papers from NA-56 Rawalpindi-V and NA-57 Rawalpindi-VI.

In a video statement released following the rejection of his nomination papers, Rashid said that he has tried to obtain a copy of the ECP's decision but has been unable to. "A copy should be given to me so I can move the Supreme Court and get my due right."

"I will not let go of my right [to contest election] and I will fight till my last breath for my legal and constitutional right," said the AML chief.

"Yesterday, it was alleged that 12 years ago, I resided in a rest house and did not pay Rs942, resulting in my disqualification. This accusation is a false and baseless jest and I can not condemn it enough. If anyone can prove, even in 50 years, that I lived in such a rest house, I am prepared to resign from politics."

Read Rashid faces queries during papers’ scrutiny

"With the support of PTI voters and supporters, victory is inevitable. There is no escape for PDM, and success will be achieved through the historical symbolism of the ink pot with a pen," said Rashid while referring to the seats for which he had submitted his nomination papers.

The former minister added that those who "conspire and have wreaked havoc on the country economically, politically, and socially may return to London, but my allegiance remains with Pakistan. "We will live and die for our country."

A day earlier, Rashid was summoned to the commissioner’s office on short notice where he addressed another accusation related to the non-disclosure of a specific piece of land.

Emphasising that all his land is registered in his name, Rashid asserted that the apex court had already ruled in his favour on the matter. The former minister also refuted allegations of tax evasion, stating that he has consistently adhered to tax regulations.

Highlighting his extensive experience as a minister, Rashid questioned the rationale behind engaging in corruption over an amount as trivial as Rs94,000.