The Election Commission of Pakistan, in a unanimous verdict on Tuesday, said it has found that the PTI received prohibited funding. The commission found that 34 foreign donations were taken in fundraising. The donations were taken from America, Australia, Canada and the UAE. In addition, PTI took funds from an American businessman, the ECP said Unknown accounts have also come to light, said the commission in its verdict, adding that hiding accounts is a "violation" of Article 17 of the Constitution.

Article 17 (2) of the Constitution states: "...law shall provide that where the Federal Government declares that any political party has been formed or is operating in a manner prejudicial to the soverignty or integrity of Pakistan, the Federal Government shall, within fifeen days of such declaration, refer the matter to the Supreme Court whose decision on such reference shall be final."Article 17 (3) states: "Every political party shall account for the source of its funds in accordance with law." Moreover, the ECP found that PTI Chairman Imran Khan submitted a false Nomination Form I and that the affidavit provided regarding party accounts was false. The ECP has issued a show-cause notice to PTI.

Credit:
Independent News Pakistan-INP