POLITICS & POLICY MAKING
CEC Sikandar Sultan Raja Affirms Commitment to Law Amid PTI's Concerns During Election Tribunal Hearing
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja addressed concerns raised by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Shoaib Shaheen during a hearing regarding petitions for changes to the Islamabad Election Tribunal. The CEC emphasized that the Election Commission would operate strictly within the framework of the constitution and the law, regardless of any criticism or abuse they might face.
The Election Commission convened to hear requests from Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) members Anjum Aqeel, Raja Khurram Nawaz, and Tariq Fazal Chaudhry regarding modifications to the Islamabad Election Tribunal. Both PML-N and PTI representatives, including Shoaib Shaheen and Aamir Mughal's son, were present during the proceedings.
During the hearing, CEC Raja questioned the lawyer representing MNA Anjum Aqeel about an amended application he had submitted via WhatsApp. The CEC insisted that a hard copy should also have been provided and instructed the candidates to submit their applications separately with distinct titles.
In an exchange with Shoaib Shaheen, the CEC highlighted the Election Commission's unwavering commitment to its constitutional duties. Shaheen voiced grievances about perceived injustices, prompting a response from a member from Balochistan who questioned his claim of being a "stranger" in the proceedings. CEC Raja reiterated, "Even if someone abuses us, we will follow the constitution and the law."
Shoaib Shaheen countered, asserting that they had not resorted to insults, to which the CEC suggested he direct that inquiry toward his fellow party members.
Following the discussions, the Election Commission directed Anjum Aqeel and Raja Khurram Nawaz to submit their amended applications by the end of the day. The hearing was adjourned until 12:30 PM for these applications, while Tariq Fazal Chaudhry's case was rescheduled for October 4.
It is worth noting that during the previous hearing, both PTI and PML-N had requested additional time for arguments, leading to the appointment of a retired judge to oversee the Election Tribunal.