The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) announced on Monday that it would issue an interim order today regarding the stay on releasing the final results for NA-15 Mansehra.
The electoral body heard a plea from PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif contesting the election results from the constituency. Sharif challenged the success of PTI-backed independent candidate Shahzada Gustasap Khan in the February 8 elections.
The hearing, presided over by Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja, highlighted the need for a resolution without indefinite delays.
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During the hearing, the CEC reprimanded Nawaz’s lawyer for delays and lack of preparedness, emphasizing the importance of timely proceedings. Sharif’s counsel mentioned the non-receipt of the returning officer’s report.
In response, the counsel for the PTI-backed candidate argued that their victory was substantial, making a recount unnecessary under the law.
The issue of the ECP’s stay on releasing final results until the matter is resolved was also raised during the hearing.
The CEC stated that the stay would be lifted today, urging Nawaz’s lawyer to present arguments upon receiving the RO’s report. The hearing was adjourned briefly, and upon reconvening, Nawaz’s counsel was instructed to prepare for the next hearing.
CEC Raja emphasized the need to provide relevant records to Nawaz’s lawyers and ordered officials to do so promptly.
Despite Nawaz’s lawyer requesting a date for final arguments while maintaining the stay on the notification, the ECP adjourned the hearing only till tomorrow.
Last week, the ECP dismissed Nawaz’s application to stop the notification of the results of NA-15 Mansehra, with orders to refile it. The commission directed his lawyer to file the application again after failing to appear before the bench during the previous hearing. The ECP had initially directed the RO not to issue the final result for NA-15 Mansehra three days after the February 8 elections, following Nawaz Sharif’s challenge.
