NA-46, 47, 48: IHC hears review petition against ECP’s notification

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) convened today to deliberate on the notification of successful candidates for National Assembly Constituencies 46, 47, and 48, issued by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).

IHC Chief Justice Amir Farooq presided over the hearing, which centred on petitions filed by Shoaib Shaheen, Ali Bukhari, and Aamir Mughal challenging the ongoing notification.

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The petitioners lodged their grievances against the Election Commission’s notification, prompting the IHC to consider the matter. Shoaib Shaheen’s application, initially submitted on Saturday, faced delays in scheduling due to the unavailability of a judge. Chief Justice Farooq highlighted that the application was filed before the Commission’s notification, necessitating an amendment and refiling after the notification was issued on Monday.

During proceedings, Chief Justice Farooq expressed concerns over the Election Commission’s failure to reach the Returning Officer, raising questions about procedural integrity. Despite the applications pending with the ECP, the Chief Justice pondered the potential ramifications if the Commission were to address the petitions promptly.

The focus of the hearing revolved around the possibility of nullifying the Election Commission’s notification, as advocated by Shoaib Shaheen’s legal team.

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While the Chief Justice underscored the court’s limitation in directing the Election Commission, he hinted at providing observations on the matter. However, advocate Shoaib Shaheen contended that the IHC could indeed issue directives to the ECP.

Justice Amir Farooq reserved the verdict after hearing deliberations from both sides.

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