Imran Khan disqualified from holding office for five years, Pakistan’s election commission rules
Islamabad, Pakistan
CNN
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Former Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) issued the ruling on Friday, a move that is likely to increase political tensions in the country further.
While reading the recommendation, ECP Director Sikandar Sultan Raja stated that Khan was disqualified for engaging in “corrupt practices”.
The committee said its decision was based on the grounds that Khan had “made false statements” regarding the sale of gifts sent to him by the leaders of Saudi Arabia and Dubai upon request. while in office – an illegal act under the country’s constitution. .
There was a heavy police presence outside the election commission’s office in the capital Islamabad on Friday, ahead of protests by Khan’s supporters. Paramilitary troops have been deployed throughout the city and the Red Zone, which surrounds major government buildings, including the electoral commission, has been largely blocked off.
At a press conference shortly after the ECP’s announcement, leaders from Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-insaf (PTI), said they would take the matter to the Islamabad High Court, citing the decision. of the ECP is “biased. ”
PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry on Friday said it was “the start of a revolution” and urged supporters to “get out of their homes and take to the streets to defend the constitution”.
The announcement raises the prospect of Khan not being able to run in the next general election, scheduled for 2023. CNN has reached out to Khan’s attorney for comment.
The committee’s ruling is the latest in a series of setbacks for Khan, who was substantially removed from his position in a vote of no confidence in April.
The political party Pakistan Democratic Movement, part of the country’s ruling coalition that ousted Khan from power, prompted the commission’s investigation.
However, the populist cricketer leader has maintained widespread popularity.
He has repeatedly stated that his dismissal was the result of a plot against him led by the United States. He also accused current Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Pakistani military of being behind his ouster.
His statements have destabilized a young population in a country where anger and frustration with the political and military establishment is fueled by a rising cost of living crisis and anti-social sentiment. America is popular.
The United States, the ruling coalition and the Pakistani military have all denied Khan’s allegations.
His enduring popularity has translated into victory in the recent provincial election for his party and he has repeatedly called for a new parliamentary vote at major rallies held since then. he retired.
Khan has repeatedly called for early elections and has said he will lead his supporters in a long march to Islamabad.
