Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday stopped Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) from holding by-election in NA-95. IHC, while hearing Imran Khan petition against disqualification by the election commission in Toshakhana reference, removed objections of the registrar on the plea. PTI Chairman counsel urged the court to suspend ECP decision disqualifying Imran Khan. However, Justice Farooq turned down the request and issued orders to stop the by-election in Mianwali. The court also issued notices to the ECP against Imran Khan disqualification. Earlier in the month, ECP disqualified the former premier in the Toshakhana reference, stating he had committed corrupt practices by making false statements and submitting incorrect declaration. A four-member bench headed by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja announced the unanimous decision. In the decision, it has been said that Imran Khan is no longer a member of the National Assembly, adding that he submitted a false affidavit and has been involved in corrupt practices. The electoral watchdog declared Imran Khan National Assembly seat as vacant.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan-INP