PTI criticises ECP's attempt to alter Punjab election tribunals

Salman Akram Raja claims tribunals appointed by LHC chief justice obstructed from performing their duties

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) condemned the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for its efforts to alter the election tribunals in Punjab, which were appointed by the chief justice of the Lahore High Court to handle electoral disputes.

In a press conference on Sunday, PTI leader Barrister Salman Akram Raja criticised the ECP, asserting that the elections held on February 8 were marred by significant rigging.

Raja, who contested and lost in NA-128 Lahore, claimed that the tribunals appointed by the LHC chief justice were obstructed from performing their duties, unlike their counterparts in other provinces.

Raja alleged that the government is particularly concerned about the tribunals in Punjab, suggesting that significant disruptions could occur if these tribunals adjudicate the election disputes. He labelled those who sow discord between institutions and the public as 'enemies of Pakistan.'

PTI leader Meher Bano Qureshi, who also lost in NA-151 Multan, underscored the importance of women's representation in democracy. She lamented that only three women from her party are currently serving in Parliament.

Raja has filed a review petition with the Supreme Court of Pakistan, requesting that the Punjab Election Tribunal be made operational.

The Supreme Court's five-member bench, led by the Chief Justice, is expected to review the ECP's appeal against the LHC’s decision to establish eight election tribunals in Punjab.

Previously, on July 4, the Supreme Court had suspended the LHC’s ruling and its notification regarding the appointment of these tribunals, pending further consultations between the LHC Chief Justice and the ECP.

Additionally, on July 9, President Asif Ali Zardari approved the Election (Amendment) Bill 2024, which grants the ECP the authority to appoint retired high court judges to election tribunals without needing consultation with the respective chief justices.

This amendment modifies the Elections Act of 2017, aiming to streamline the process for tribunal appointments.