ECP takes exception to former SC Judge’s remarks on key election rulings

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has rejected comments made by former Supreme Court judge Justice Mansoor Ali Shah regarding the PTI reserved seats case. In a statement on Wednesday, the ECP stated that Shah's remarks overlooked fundamental constitutional and legal principles. During an event on October 29 organized by the US-based Community Alliance for Peace and Justice, Shah defended the Supreme Court's 2024 decision on reserved seats, which led to the PTI's eligibility for seats reserved for women and minorities.

This ruling dealt a blow to the ruling coalition. Shah argued that the PTI is a political party, and denying it its election symbol is both wrong and illegal. He also pointed out that the reserved seats decision was not well-received by everyone. The ECP disagreed, explaining that the allocation of an election symbol is contingent upon the conduct of transparent intra-party elections under Sections 208 and 209 of the Elections Act 2017.

The commission further noted that while the PTI conducted intra-party elections after five years, these proceedings were still pending as the party had sought a stay order from a high court. The ECP clarified that the PTI remains listed as a political party in its records. Concerning reserved seats, the ECP emphasized that only political parties that participated in general elections are eligible for them.

They also highlighted that parties must submit lists of preferred candidates prior to elections, which the PTI failed to do.