The Peshawar High Court (PHC) has suspended the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) call-up notice issued to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur in an assets case. This decision comes after the Chief Minister challenged the ECP’s notice, arguing that it exceeded its authority.
Legal Arguments Presented
During the hearing, the Chief Minister’s legal team contended that the ECP overstepped its jurisdiction by seeking clarification on asset returns for the year 2022/23. They maintained that Gandapur had already provided asset details for the year 2024 during nomination proceedings, and all relevant information was available on the ECP’s website.
Court’s Decision
The PHC, comprising a two-member bench, suspended the ECP’s call-up notice and sought a reply from the commission. The court has scheduled the next hearing for May 22, allowing the ECP to respond to the concerns raised by the petitioner’s counsel.
Background of the Case
The case originated from a petition filed by a political opponent, alleging discrepancies in the Chief Minister’s declared assets, particularly concerning land ownership and the purchase of a luxury vehicle. The petitioner argued that these actions indicated a failure to meet the integrity standards required for his position.
Implications for Political Accountability
This legal development underscores the ongoing scrutiny of public officials’ asset declarations in Pakistan. The suspension of the ECP’s notice highlights the judiciary’s role in interpreting the extent of the commission’s authority and ensuring that due process is followed in matters of political accountability.
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