The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has refused to recognise Barrister Gohar as the chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), creating another layer of uncertainty for the party’s leadership structure. The Commission has also rejected his request to include several independent senators in PTI, citing the ongoing intra-party election case.
According to the ECP, the matter cannot be finalised until the pending proceedings are resolved. The Commission also highlighted that PTI has already secured a stay order from the Lahore High Court, which further limits its ability to take any final decision regarding party leadership and membership changes.
ECP’s official stance
In its formal communication, the Election Commission stated that Barrister Gohar does not hold the legal authority to include independent senators in the party at this stage. The letter added that the Commission has not issued any certificate confirming PTI’s recent intra-party polls, as the case remains under judicial consideration.
Barrister Gohar reacts to ECP reply
Speaking to the media after receiving the letter, Barrister Gohar expressed disappointment over the ECP’s stance. He confirmed that the party intends to challenge the decision in court.
He said, “When Senate elections were held, independent senators joined PTI. I wrote to the Election Commission on November 13 requesting their inclusion. Today, I received a reply dated November 26 saying they don’t recognise them. This is unfortunate, and we will take the matter to court.”
Gohar further noted that PTI’s intra-party elections remain unverified by the ECP, which he believes is the core issue delaying recognition.
‘PTI cannot be banned,’ says Gohar
Addressing the growing debate about a possible ban on PTI, Gohar dismissed the speculation. He argued that the party’s legal status contradicts such claims. “If PTI is not registered according to the Election Commission, then on what basis can it be banned?” he questioned.
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The situation is expected to develop further as PTI prepares to take the ECP decision to court, keeping the political environment tense and uncertain.
