SC upholds ECP verdict, deprives PTI of 'bat' symbol

ISLAMABAD (92 News) – The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Saturday upheld the verdict of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) issued on December 22,  depriving the PTI of the election symbol of 'bat' and nullifying the intra-party elections.

A three-member bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa heard the case. Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Justice Musarrat Hilali were the bench members.

After concluding the hearing, CJP remarked that all lawyers assisted the court. "Both sides presented good arguments. I have to consult my bench colleagues. Some time is needed to reach the conclusion."

During the hearing, Chief Justice observed that the people were inducted in the PTI by selection, not the election.  "The ECP had repeatedly asked the PTI to conduct the elections. It cannot happen that one will get the election symbol without the intra-party election. Getting the election symbol and the certificate comes after the election," he observed.

The CJP remarked that the PTI will have to prove dishonesty and levelling of the allegations is not sufficient.

Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, addressing the PTI counsel, remarked: "You have approached the court for getting the level playing field. You will have to give the level-playing field to your members as well. The ECP has not itself taken the action. The action was taken after getting a complaint."