ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Sunday stopped the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) from taking out a rally on May 1 (tomorrow) for violating the election code of conduct.
The electoral watch dog issued a show-cause notice to the former ruling party for violating the code of conduct. The notice stated that permission from the district administration was required to hold rallies and jalsas. Consequently, the ECP directed the PTI to cancel its May 1 rally.
In response, PTI senior vice president Fawad Chaudhry argued that the notice was illegal and demanded that the ECP revoke it. He took to Twitter and stated that the rally must be allowed to continue as scheduled.
He further accused the ECP of bias and criticized their decision to prevent the party from holding a rally on Labour Day, a day on which socio-political parties traditionally show solidarity with labourers. Chaudhry claimed that the ECP seemed to want everything but hold elections and asked where the country was heading under their leadership.
On May 1, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) had planned to hold a rallies in main cities of Punjab to mark the Labour Day. Imran Khan announced that he would lead the Lahore rally.
Furthermore, the ECP has the legal authority to take action against any political party or candidate that violates the code of conduct. This includes issuing show-cause notices, imposing fines, and even disqualifying candidates. The ECP’s decision to issue a show-cause notice to the PTI is a reminder of the commission’s role in ensuring free and fair elections in Pakistan. While political parties have the right to hold rallies and campaign, they must do so in accordance with the law and with respect for public peace and order.
