Lahore High Court Upholds Election Commission’s Power to Regulate Electoral Symbols.
Lahore: The Lahore High Court (LHC) affirmed the authority of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to revoke electoral symbols from political parties. The decision, delivered by Justice Shahid Bilal Hassan, came in response to a petition challenging the ECP’s jurisdiction over election symbols.
The LHC’s written judgment, spanning 18 pages, dismissed the petition and upheld the legality of Section 215 of the Election Act 2017. Justice Hassan emphasized that this section, which empowers the ECP to regulate electoral symbols, does not contravene the Constitution. The court cited Articles 9, 14, 17, and others in support of its decision, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic principles and ensuring fair electoral processes.
Addressing the petitioner’s argument that Section 215 infringed upon constitutional rights, the court declared the petition as not maintainable. It underscored the necessity for political parties to comply with both the Election Act and the Constitution, emphasizing the rule of law and the importance of respecting legal frameworks.
Furthermore, the court clarified that Sections 209 and 2010 of the Election Act 2017 pertain to intra-party polls, reinforcing the need for transparency and democratic practices within political organizations.
The petitioner, Mian Shabbir Ismail, had raised concerns about the ECP’s authority to revoke election symbols, prompting the legal challenge in the Lahore High Court.
This ruling reaffirms the ECP’s role in ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections by regulating electoral symbols, thereby promoting accountability and integrity in the electoral process. It underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and preserving the rule of law in Pakistan’s electoral system.
More From Daily The Destination: ECP unveils comprehensive candidate details for 2024 elections
Imran, Sheikh Rashid & Rashid Shafiq summoned in May 9 riots case
An anti-terrorism court in Rawalpindi took significant steps in the case related to the May 9 violence, summoning prominent figures including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former interior minister Sheikh Rashid, along with Sheikh Rashid Shafiq, on February 6. The court diligently heard testimonies from witnesses, including PTI candidate Ajmal Sabir from NA-53, former National Assembly members Sadaqat Abbasi and Wasiq Qayyum, and Umar Tanveer Butt, shedding light on the events surrounding the May 9 riots. These witnesses provided detailed accounts, attributing the planning of the riots to several individuals, including Sheikh Rashid, Raja Basharat, Rashid Shafiq, Ijaz Khan Jazi, and Rashad Hafeez. Notably, Colonel Ajmal Sabir, the PTI candidate from NA-53, also came forward as a witness, alleging that the planning for the riots occurred at Sheikh Rashid’s residence, Lal Haveli, on May 6. The court’s proceedings mark a significant step towards seeking justice and accountability in the aftermath of the May 9 violence.
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.