They would now face criminal proceedings which could lead up to three years’ imprisonment and disqualification from contesting elections for five years.
Under Thursday’s Supreme Court order, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has to initiate further proceedings against the disqualified legislators for being guilty of corrupt practices.
The chief election commissioner has called a meeting of the commission on Monday to chalk out the future course of action, in line with the apex court order.
Clause 3 of Section 78 of Representation of Peoples Act (RPA), 1976 declares a legislator guilty of corrupt practice if he makes or publishes a false statement, or submits false or incorrect declaration in any particular material.
Anyone found guilty of corrupt practice is punishable with imprisonment for a term which can extend to three years, or with fine of up to Rs5,000 under section 82 of the same act.
Sources say the ECP is likely to constitute special tribunals to individually look into the cases of the sacked lawmakers and initiate criminal proceedings against them.
According to Section 100 of the RPA, an elected representative proven guilty of corrupt practice by a tribunal can face disqualification from holding any public office for next five years.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 21st, 2012.
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