In a recent Supreme Court hearing on the rejection of nomination papers for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders, Justice Mansoor Ali Shah emphasized the fundamental right to contest elections, stating that deprivation without lawful justification is unjust. The cases involved Umar Aslam, whose papers were initially rejected due to alleged absconding, and Tahir Sadiq, facing a rejection by the Lahore High Court.
Justice Athar Manullah underscored that election decisions rest with the people, emphasizing the importance of accountability by the public rather than solely by the Election Commission. The court allowed Umar Aslam and Tahir Sadiq to contest elections, asserting that contesting elections is a fundamental right, and a person cannot be barred without proper legal grounds.
Another case involved the dismissal of PTI leader Muhammad Arif Abbasi’s appeal, upholding the Election Tribunal’s decision to reject his nomination papers for the PP-19 constituency. Chief Justice Qazi Faiz Isa noted the petitioner’s failure to mention criminal cases and properties in London in the nomination papers. The court stressed the importance of truthfulness in presenting facts.
Advocate Ali Zafar, speaking after the proceedings, highlighted the Supreme Court’s significant decision, stating that the rejection of nomination papers cannot be solely based on allegations. The court affirmed that the people have the ultimate authority to decide, and this ruling is expected to lead to the restoration of many previously rejected papers. Additionally, Zafar mentioned the three categories of election candidates and hinted at filing a review against a recent intra-party election decision.
