Election Tribunal Warns ROs in Islamabad

An Election Tribunal in Islamabad has issued a final warning to Returning Officers (ROs) of three constituencies in the federal capital. The warning came during a hearing of petitions filed by Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI) candidates challenging election results. The tribunal, led by IHC judge Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri, has instructed the ROs to appear with their counsel at the next hearing or face the possibility of arrest warrants being issued.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has requested a review of the tribunal's previous order, and the judge has issued notices to the concerned parties. The Additional Director General Law of the ECP has agreed to provide certified copies of election forms and results, which are accessible on the Election Management System (EMS).

Justice Jahangiri has set a deadline of one week for the ECP official to submit the necessary documents. He has also directed other respondents to comply with the previous order by submitting written statements and original forms within the same timeframe. The judge emphasized that if any respondents fail to appear, notices will be served through newspapers and electronic media, potentially leading to ex-parte proceedings.

The registrar's office has been tasked with providing a report on the receipt of notices by all respondents before the next hearing scheduled for May 29. The case has been adjourned for further proceedings.

The Election Tribunal's warning to the ROs underscores the importance of compliance with legal procedures in electoral disputes. The upcoming hearing on May 29 will be crucial in determining the next steps in resolving the petitions filed by PTI candidates. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.