ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has declined to recognize Barrister Gohar Ali Khan as chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
The ECP clarified that he had approached the commission on November 13, requesting formal acknowledgment of the inclusion of independent senators into PTI. However, the commission noted that the matter could not be processed under the present circumstances.
The ECP explained that PTI’s intra-party elections case remains pending, and the party has obtained a stay order from the Lahore High Court. Furthermore, the commission stated it is unable to accept any internal changes or leadership claims within PTI until the court proceedings conclude.
The Election Commission made it clear that Barrister Gohar cannot be accepted as the chairman of PTI at this stage. The letter further stated that he does not possess the legal authority required for the actions he sought to undertake on behalf of the party.
Moreover, the development indicates another procedural hurdle for PTI as it continues to navigate legal challenges surrounding its internal elections and organizational structure.
The ECP’s position indicates that any decisions related to the party’s leadership or membership adjustments will remain on hold until the judiciary provides further direction. The commission’s confirmation of its stance underscores its reliance on judicial outcomes before proceeding with any administrative validations.
The ECP has maintained that all political parties must meet legal and procedural requirements for leadership recognition, especially when cases are pending before the courts.
The intra-party elections case is resolved, the commission is expected to continue withholding approval of any internal changes suggested by PTI’s representatives. The PTI leadership has not yet issued a formal reaction to the Election Commission’s response.
However, party insiders suggest that the matter may be taken up once the relevant legal proceedings move forward.
