PDM files reference in ECP for Imran’s disqualification

PDM files reference in ECP for Imran’s disqualification. The Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) on Thursday filed a reference in the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for the disqualification of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Mohsin Shahnawaz Ranjha submitted the reference to ECP under Article 63.

The reference plead that the PTI Chairman did not disclose the gifts received from Toshakhana in assets and he should be disqualified under Article 62 (1) (F), which sets the precondition for a member of parliament to be “sadiq and ameen” (honest and righteous).

While the Supreme Court on Thursday raised questions on the maintainability of a petition against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders, including Imran Khan, for “inciting the people against state institutions”.

A division bench of the SC led by Justice Ijaz ul Ahsan heard the petition filed by lawyer namely Qosain Faisal who had sought the apex court’s directions to the party’s leaders, including Imran Khan, to stop giving statements against the institutions and establish a commission to take further action against the party leaders.

During the proceeding this morning, Justice Ijaz ul Ahsan asked the petitioner counsel Hassan Raza Pasha which of the fundamental rights are violated. “Which law is violated by respondents,” the court asked while also questioning why the petitioner did not approach relevant forum to redress his grievances.

Read more: ECP says PTI received prohibited funds

The SC judge also asked how the case is a matter of public importance. “Could the court intervene in a matter under Article 184/3 out of public interest against private persons?” questioned the judge.

“Why should the court hear this case?”Justice Ijazul Ahsan questioned, to which advocate Faisal responded by saying that ” Imran Khan and other leaders made derogatory statements against the supreme judiciary, the Election Commission, and the armed forces”.

However, Justice Yahya Afridi maintained that the lawyers’ argument remained unclear. “Have the courts been rendered weak following someone’s comments?” he retorted.

“The SC has the authority to evoke Article 204 in contempt of court. Whenever the court deems it appropriate, it will take notice itself and take action,” said Justice Afridi.

“Your job was to inform the court, you have done so, that is it,” he continued.

“It would have been appropriate for you to have gone to another forum for proceedings,” the judge remarked.