PTI committed to active participation in polls despite symbol setback: Gohar

Former PTI chairman, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, asserted on Monday that despite the recent Supreme Court ruling upholding the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) decision to strip the PTI of its 'bat' symbol, the party remains committed to active participation in the upcoming general elections scheduled for February 8.

The Supreme Court's verdict on Saturday favoured the ECP, leading to the PTI losing its iconic 'bat' symbol just weeks before the elections. Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa, in the announcement, deemed the plea in the Peshawar High Court (PHC) inadmissible, citing that a single case cannot concurrently proceed in two high courts.

The court's decision pointed out that the PTI failed to provide evidence of transparent intra-party elections, a prerequisite for all political parties. Chief Justice Isa clarified that the ECP had consistently urged the PTI to conduct its intra-party elections since May 24, 2021, emphasising that the ECP's actions were not discriminatory. The order highlighted that the ECP had issued severe orders against 13 other political parties.

Consequently, PTI candidates will now contest the elections independently, each with distinctive electoral symbols. The party also forfeits the right to reserved seats for women and minorities.

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Speaking to the media outside Adiala Jail, Barrister Gohar stated that the party would release a list of candidates independently participating in the elections, in compliance with the SC's decision. He termed the Supreme Court's verdict as a substantial setback to democracy, expressing concern that it impinged upon the fundamental rights of millions in Pakistan, characterising it as a successful conspiracy against democracy. He asserted that the decision would inadvertently usher in a new wave of corruption.

Barrister Gohar affirmed the party's commitment to the February 8 elections and announced the filing of a review petition against the SC's judgment, arguing that a five-member bench should have adjudicated the matter. He assured that the PTI would promptly disseminate a list of its candidates along with their respective electoral symbols on various social media platforms within three days.

Addressing concerns about potential horse-trading due to the absence of a party symbol, he expressed optimism that PTI-backed candidates would align with the party's directives during the voting processes of the ensuing assemblies.

Also read: PTI withdraws contempt plea against ECP from SC

While acknowledging the PTI's intent to adhere to the Supreme Court's decision, Barrister Gohar urged party members and supporters not to lose hope and to maintain a peaceful demeanor while safeguarding their votes. Responding to queries about a potential alliance with Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM) to curb horse-trading, he dismissed speculations about any meeting with MWM's chairman, Allama Raja Nasir Abbas.

On the subject of the release of incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan, Barrister Gohar expressed the party's anticipation for his early release, highlighting that a hearing date had not been allocated.

Regarding a raid at his residence, he reported assurances from the Inspector General (IG) of Islamabad to hold accountable responsible officials, with some police personnel already suspended. He conveyed that the inquiry was ongoing, awaiting a conclusive report, and underscored that such actions against PTI leaders were not unprecedented, calling for an end to such practices.