<p>Pakistan’s Supreme Court late Saturday (Jan 13) stripped the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) off its iconic ‘bat’ election symbol, a move after which those contesting in&nbsp;elections from the party will have to fight as independent candidates. This is a major setback for Pakistan's jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan.</p>

<p>The court also declared the PTI's intra-party polls as "null and void". This ruling comes after a continued legal tussle between Pakistan's election body and PTI over the electoral symbol and rejection of intra-party polls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Setting aside the Peshawar High Court (PHC) order which said that the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) decision was 'illegal', Pakistan's Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa said, the ECP “has been calling upon the PTI to hold its intra-party elections since May 24, 2021 and at that time the PTI was in the federal government and in some provinces.”</p>

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<p>“Therefore, it cannot be stated that ECP was victimising PTI. Nonetheless, we wanted to satisfy ourselves that the ECP had not acted mala fide of ulterior reason or that PTI was discriminated against; it transpired that the ECP had passed orders against 13 other registered political parties which were far more severe than the order passed against PTI," the judge added, reported Pakistan's media outlet Dawn.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the verdict was pronounced, PTI's Barrister Gohar Khan expressed disappointment and announced the party's intention to file a review appeal against the Supreme Court order.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-genocide-case-western-countries-reject-safricas-charges-turkey-to-provide-documents-679670">Israel ‘genocide’ case: Western countries reject S. Africa’s charges; Turkey to provide documents</a></p>

<p>The entire saga started on December 22 when the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) disallowed PTI to keep its electoral symbol for the upcoming general elections. Giving its reasons for the move, the election body cited the party's failure to conduct intra-party polls in alignment with the constitution and election laws.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite a brief restoration of the symbol by the Peshawar High Court, the ECP's decision was ultimately upheld by the country's apex court.&nbsp;</p>

<section>
<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taiwan-elections-lai-ching-te-wins-presidential-vote-vows-to-defend-island-from-china-threats-679734">Taiwan elections: Lai Ching-te wins presidential vote, vows to defend island from China threats</a></strong></p>

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<p>PTI also attempted to join the elections using the PTI-Nazriati splinter group’s symbol, the batsman. However, this plan B was also ruined after an agreement fell through, further complicating the party's electoral prospects.&nbsp;</p>
</section>

<p>The Supreme Court's recent ruling means PTI candidates will no longer be able to campaign with the ‘bat’ symbol.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan’s Supreme Court late Saturday (Jan 13) stripped the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) off its iconic ‘bat’ election symbol, a move after which those contesting in elections from the party will have to fight as independent candidates.

Pakistan’s Supreme Court late Saturday (Jan 13) stripped the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) off its iconic ‘bat’ election symbol, a move after which those contesting in elections from the party will have to fight as independent candidates. This is a major setback for Pakistan's jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The court also declared the PTI's intra-party polls as "null and void". This ruling comes after a continued legal tussle between Pakistan's election body and PTI over the electoral symbol and rejection of intra-party polls. Setting aside the Peshawar High Court (PHC) order which said that the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) decision was 'illegal', Pakistan's Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa said, the ECP “has been calling upon the PTI to hold its intra-party elections since May 24, 2021 and at that time the PTI was in the federal government and in some provinces.” Also Read | Japan: Boeing 737 plane returns to airport after crack in cockpit window “Therefore, it cannot be stated that ECP was victimising PTI. Nonetheless, we wanted to satisfy ourselves that the ECP had not acted mala fide of ulterior reason or that PTI was discriminated against; it transpired that the ECP had passed orders against 13 other registered political parties which were far more severe than the order passed against PTI," the judge added, reported Pakistan's media outlet Dawn. As the verdict was pronounced, PTI's Barrister Gohar Khan expressed disappointment and announced the party's intention to file a review appeal against the Supreme Court order. Also Read | Israel ‘genocide’ case: Western countries reject S. Africa’s charges; Turkey to provide documents The entire saga started on December 22 when the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) disallowed PTI to keep its electoral symbol for the upcoming general elections. Giving its reasons for the move, the election body cited the party's failure to conduct intra-party polls in alignment with the constitution and election laws. Despite a brief restoration of the symbol by the Peshawar High Court, the ECP's decision was ultimately upheld by the country's apex court. Watch | Taiwan elections: Lai Ching-te wins presidential vote, vows to defend island from China threats × PTI also attempted to join the elections using the PTI-Nazriati splinter group’s symbol, the batsman. However, this plan B was also ruined after an agreement fell through, further complicating the party's electoral prospects. The Supreme Court's recent ruling means PTI candidates will no longer be able to campaign with the ‘bat’ symbol. (With inputs from agencies)

Pak SC strips Imran Khan's PTI off 'bat' electoral symbol, party to file review appeal

Pakistan’s Supreme Court late Saturday (Jan 13) stripped the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) off its iconic ‘bat’ election symbol, a move after which those contesting in elections from the party will have to fight as independent candidates. This is a major setback for Pakistan's jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Pakistan: Imran Khan's party loses 'bat' symbol, PTI candidates to contest as independents

In a major relief ahead of the February 8 general elections, the Peshawar High Court (PHC) on Wednesday declared “illegal” the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) decision to revoke the PTI’s ‘bat’ electoral symbol and reject its intra-party polls.

Peshawar High Court restores PTI's electoral symbol

The Pakistan election body rejected former Prime Minister Imran Khan's nomination to run in the 2024 parliamentary elections. Khan's Pakistan Tahreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has accused authorities of stopping most of its candidates from participating in the February elections.

Pakistan: PTI leaders move to Supreme Court after ECP rejects nominations

<p>Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan's party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has decided to move election tribunals in the country a day after nomination papers of most of the party candidates were rejected. The list of rejected candidates includes Imran Khan as well.</p>

<p>Pakistani news outlet Dawn quoted PTI's central information secretary Raoof Hasan who said that all rejections will be challenged. He added that the appeals will first be made to election tribunals as per procedure and other options will be explored later.</p>

<p>“The candidates have collected the certified copies of ‘rejection decisions’ from respective ROs on Sunday and will begin filing appeals with the appellate tribunals from today,” he said, as quoted by Dawn.</p>

<p>Elections in Pakistan are due on February 8.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | US, India, UK, Bangladesh, Pakistan: 2024 the Biggest Election Year ever?</strong></p>

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<p>Khan is currently in jail. He is facing a barrage of legal cases which he and his party say are politically motivated and have been filed to prevent him from contesting the election.</p>

<h2><strong>There is an 'agenda', PTI alleges</strong></h2>

<p>PTI spokesman Raoof Hasan said on Sunday (December 31, 2023) that nomination papers of "90 to 95 per cent" of PTI candidates were rejected.</p>

<p>He told AFP that there was an "agenda" to prevent PTI from contesting the elections.</p>

<p>"All tactics are being tried for this purpose but, under any circumstances, we will not leave the political ground and will not boycott the elections," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-election-body-accepts-nawaz-sharifs-nomination-papers-for-na-130-lahore-674344">Pakistan’s election body accepts Nawaz Sharif’s nomination papers for NA-130 Lahore</a></strong></p>

<p>Hasan Askari, a political analyst, told AFP that such widespread action against a single party was "unprecedented".</p>

<p>"This is the first time in the country's history that a political party has been excluded from the electoral process on such a large scale even before the election," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-son-of-un-designated-terrorist-gearing-up-for-elections-india-slams-675045">Pakistan: Son of UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed to contest polls, India slams development</a></strong></p>

<p>State institutions want to keep PTI from contesting polls "at any cost" and "the chances of PTI getting relief are very slim", he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan's party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has decided to move election tribunals in the country a day after nomination papers of most of the party candidates were rejected.

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan's party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has decided to move election tribunals in the country a day after nomination papers of most of the party candidates were rejected. The list of rejected candidates includes Imran Khan as well. Pakistani news outlet Dawn quoted PTI's central information secretary Raoof Hasan who said that all rejections will be challenged. He added that the appeals will first be made to election tribunals as per procedure and other options will be explored later. “The candidates have collected the certified copies of ‘rejection decisions’ from respective ROs on Sunday and will begin filing appeals with the appellate tribunals from today,” he said, as quoted by Dawn. Elections in Pakistan are due on February 8. Watch | US, India, UK, Bangladesh, Pakistan: 2024 the Biggest Election Year ever? × Khan is currently in jail. He is facing a barrage of legal cases which he and his party say are politically motivated and have been filed to prevent him from contesting the election. There is an 'agenda', PTI alleges PTI spokesman Raoof Hasan said on Sunday (December 31, 2023) that nomination papers of "90 to 95 per cent" of PTI candidates were rejected. He told AFP that there was an "agenda" to prevent PTI from contesting the elections. "All tactics are being tried for this purpose but, under any circumstances, we will not leave the political ground and will not boycott the elections," he said. Also Read | Pakistan’s election body accepts Nawaz Sharif’s nomination papers for NA-130 Lahore Hasan Askari, a political analyst, told AFP that such widespread action against a single party was "unprecedented". "This is the first time in the country's history that a political party has been excluded from the electoral process on such a large scale even before the election," he said. Also Read | Pakistan: Son of UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed to contest polls, India slams development State institutions want to keep PTI from contesting polls "at any cost" and "the chances of PTI getting relief are very slim", he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Imran Khan’s party to approach election tribunals against poll disqualification

Big relief for Imran Khan's party with the Peshawar high court now suspending the election commission's rulings and restoring the PTI's election symbol, the cricket bat.

Big relief for ex-Pak PM Imran Khan's party as HC restores PTI's bat symbol

<p>Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan's political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), said on Monday (Dec 25) that it would challenge Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) decision to consider intra-party polls unconstitutional and revoke the 'cricket bat' symbol</p>

<p>ECP's five-member panel on Friday last week, rejected the party's internal elections and also denied its plea to have cricket bat as electoral symbol for upcoming general elections.</p>

<p>Mohammad Muazzam Butt, lawyer of PTI and the party's central information secretary was quoted by Dawn newspaper saying that the party would move Peshawar High Court and will file a writ petition on December 26.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Afghanistan-Pakistan water sharing dispute: Taliban's dam project in Kunar River</strong></p>

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<p>Butt reportedly termed ECP's decision to be "legally flawed" and claimed that the commission had failed to deliver justice.</p>

<p>Pakistan's electoral watchdog has held PTI's internal elections void in less than a month. Barrister Gohar Ali Khan was elected as party chairman in the internal elections.</p>

<p>Gohar Khan who is close to Imran Khan (71) lost his chairmanship within days due to decision by the ECP.</p>

<h2><strong>Why the 'bat'?</strong></h2>

<p>Imran Khan, the famous former cricketer-turned-politician is currently in Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi. He is facing multiple cases which the former PM claims are politically motivated. His stature as a cricketer may likely help him in elections if his party fights polls with a cricket-related electoral symbol.</p>

<p>But ECP has denied the permission.</p>

<p>“It is held that PTI has not complied with our directions rendered therein order dated November 23 and failed to hold intra-party election following PTI prevailing Constitution, 2019 and Election Act, 2017, and Election Rules, 2017,” it said in its decision.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/security-nightmare-in-pakistan-country-reports-highest-instances-of-suicide-attacks-since-2014-673296">Security nightmare in Pakistan? Country reports highest instances of suicide attacks since 2014</a></strong></p>

<p>The PTI has slammed the decision as being part of the “famous London Plan” and a “disgusting and shameful attempt to stop the party from [participating in the] election”. The party says it has enough support among Pakistan public which will hand it victory in general elections in February next year.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-in-2023-imran-khans-arrest-return-of-nawaz-sharif-and-baloch-uprising-672947">Imran Khan's arrest to Nawaz Sharif's return and Baloch uprising, events that shook Pakistan in 2023</a></strong></p>

<p>The party has decided to appeal the decision at every forum and has even said that its candidates will contest elections with the 'bat' symbol, come what may.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan's political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), said on Monday (Dec 25) that it would challenge Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) decision to consider intra-party polls unconstitutional and revoke the 'cricket bat' symbol ECP's five-member panel on Friday last week, rejected the party's internal elections and also denied its plea to have cricket bat as electoral symbol for upcoming general elections.

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan's political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), said on Monday (Dec 25) that it would challenge Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) decision to consider intra-party polls unconstitutional and revoke the 'cricket bat' symbol ECP's five-member panel on Friday last week, rejected the party's internal elections and also denied its plea to have cricket bat as electoral symbol for upcoming general elections. Mohammad Muazzam Butt, lawyer of PTI and the party's central information secretary was quoted by Dawn newspaper saying that the party would move Peshawar High Court and will file a writ petition on December 26. Watch | Afghanistan-Pakistan water sharing dispute: Taliban's dam project in Kunar River × Butt reportedly termed ECP's decision to be "legally flawed" and claimed that the commission had failed to deliver justice. Pakistan's electoral watchdog has held PTI's internal elections void in less than a month. Barrister Gohar Ali Khan was elected as party chairman in the internal elections. Gohar Khan who is close to Imran Khan (71) lost his chairmanship within days due to decision by the ECP. Why the 'bat'? Imran Khan, the famous former cricketer-turned-politician is currently in Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi. He is facing multiple cases which the former PM claims are politically motivated. His stature as a cricketer may likely help him in elections if his party fights polls with a cricket-related electoral symbol. But ECP has denied the permission. “It is held that PTI has not complied with our directions rendered therein order dated November 23 and failed to hold intra-party election following PTI prevailing Constitution, 2019 and Election Act, 2017, and Election Rules, 2017,” it said in its decision. Also Read | Security nightmare in Pakistan? Country reports highest instances of suicide attacks since 2014 The PTI has slammed the decision as being part of the “famous London Plan” and a “disgusting and shameful attempt to stop the party from [participating in the] election”. The party says it has enough support among Pakistan public which will hand it victory in general elections in February next year. Also Read | Imran Khan's arrest to Nawaz Sharif's return and Baloch uprising, events that shook Pakistan in 2023 The party has decided to appeal the decision at every forum and has even said that its candidates will contest elections with the 'bat' symbol, come what may. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's party to approach high court against 'flawed' verdict from polls watchdog

Pakistan’s election regulator on Friday stripped former prime minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party of its iconic election symbol, a cricket bat, less than two months before Pakistan heads to the polls, with analysts saying the move would hurt the party’s chances of winning seats in the upcoming elections.

Pakistan poll body strikes of PTI's poll symbol

Pakistan: Election Commission against letting PTI retain its Bat poll symbol

Pakistan: Bat symbol taken away from Imran Khan's PTI

<p>The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday (Dec 22) declared the intra-party elections of former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) as 'unconstitutional'. The election commission of India's western neighbour in South Asia also&nbsp;revoked PTI's claim on its 'bat' electoral symbol, ahead of the general elections scheduled on February.</p>

<p>The development comes weeks after the Election Commission of Pakistan had warned PTI to hold intra-party polls within three weeks or it will lose its electoral symbol.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-admits-losing-cipher-during-interrogation-by-fia-in-attock-jail-629664">Imran Khan admits losing cipher during interrogation by FIA in Attock jail</a></strong></p>

<p>"It is held that PTI has not complied with our directions rendered therein order dated 23rd November, 2023 and failed to hold intra-party election in accordance with PTI prevailing Constitution, 2019 and Election Act, 2017, and Election Rules, 2017," the ECP said in its 11-page order.</p>

<p>The ECP also rejected a certificate and form by newly-appointed party chairman Gohar Khan who replaced&nbsp; Imran Khan as PTI chief. It also&nbsp;declared the PTI ineligible to obtain an electoral symbol under the Elections Act, 2017.</p>

<p>It said that PTI never submitted any record of any competent authority to exercise the intra-party elections.</p>

<h2><strong>PTI says it's 'part of the famous London plan'</strong></h2>

<p>Reacting to the ECP's order, the PTI called the decision a "part of the famous London plan" and a "disgusting and shameful attempt to stop PTI" from participating in the general elections, in a purported reference to the alleged collusion between former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Pakistani deep state. Sharif, before his return to Pakistan in October, was stationed in London since 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Election Commission of Pakistan has tried to destroy the constitution, democracy and transparency of elections in the country through its decision...This biased and biased decision of the Commission cannot stand in its place and we will challenge it before the Supreme Court," said the party on X.</p>

<h2><strong>No 'bat' for Imran Khan's party: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan is a country with&nbsp;one of the lowest literacy rates in South Asia. Some of Imran Khan's strongholds in the predominantly tribal Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province are particularly backward in terms of Human Development Indicators.</p>

<p>Voters in these tribal areas identify Khan's party primarily with its bat symbol. Given Khan's acclaimed record as one of the finest cricketers Pakistan has ever produced, his party is identified with the cricket bat across Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/no-bat-for-imran-khan-pakistans-election-commission-may-take-away-ptis-electoral-symbol-662157">No bat for Imran Khan? Pakistan's election commission may take away PTI's electoral symbol</a></strong></p>

<p>In fact, 'Ballay pe thappa' (Stamp on the Bat) was the rallying call for Khan's supporters in 2018 when the PTI chief, then backed by Pakistan's army-intelligence complex, forged a coalition to be in Islamabad's Prime Minister's Office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The loss of the bat may very well translate into a loss of identity for embattled Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).&nbsp;</p>

<p><i>(With inputs from agencies)</i></p>


The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday (Dec 22) declared the intra-party elections of former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) as 'unconstitutional'.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday (Dec 22) declared the intra-party elections of former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) as 'unconstitutional'. The election commission of India's western neighbour in South Asia also revoked PTI's claim on its 'bat' electoral symbol, ahead of the general elections scheduled on February. The development comes weeks after the Election Commission of Pakistan had warned PTI to hold intra-party polls within three weeks or it will lose its electoral symbol. Also read | Imran Khan admits losing cipher during interrogation by FIA in Attock jail "It is held that PTI has not complied with our directions rendered therein order dated 23rd November, 2023 and failed to hold intra-party election in accordance with PTI prevailing Constitution, 2019 and Election Act, 2017, and Election Rules, 2017," the ECP said in its 11-page order. The ECP also rejected a certificate and form by newly-appointed party chairman Gohar Khan who replaced Imran Khan as PTI chief. It also declared the PTI ineligible to obtain an electoral symbol under the Elections Act, 2017. It said that PTI never submitted any record of any competent authority to exercise the intra-party elections. PTI says it's 'part of the famous London plan' Reacting to the ECP's order, the PTI called the decision a "part of the famous London plan" and a "disgusting and shameful attempt to stop PTI" from participating in the general elections, in a purported reference to the alleged collusion between former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Pakistani deep state. Sharif, before his return to Pakistan in October, was stationed in London since 2019. "The Election Commission of Pakistan has tried to destroy the constitution, democracy and transparency of elections in the country through its decision...This biased and biased decision of the Commission cannot stand in its place and we will challenge it before the Supreme Court," said the party on X. No 'bat' for Imran Khan's party: What does it mean? Pakistan is a country with one of the lowest literacy rates in South Asia. Some of Imran Khan's strongholds in the predominantly tribal Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province are particularly backward in terms of Human Development Indicators. Voters in these tribal areas identify Khan's party primarily with its bat symbol. Given Khan's acclaimed record as one of the finest cricketers Pakistan has ever produced, his party is identified with the cricket bat across Pakistan. Also read | No bat for Imran Khan? Pakistan's election commission may take away PTI's electoral symbol In fact, 'Ballay pe thappa' (Stamp on the Bat) was the rallying call for Khan's supporters in 2018 when the PTI chief, then backed by Pakistan's army-intelligence complex, forged a coalition to be in Islamabad's Prime Minister's Office. The loss of the bat may very well translate into a loss of identity for embattled Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Imran Khan’s party says loss of election symbol part of ‘London plan’

Pakistan’s former premier Imran Khan will run in upcoming parliamentary elections from prison, his party said Wednesday, which legal experts said is possible while his appeal of his conviction in a corruption case is being considered.

Former PM Imran Khan wants to contest polls from three constituencies | Race to Power

PTI's online gathering faces disruptions. Users reported having difficulty accessing social media platforms in Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad shortly after 8 pm. Users also complained about internet services being slow.

Pakistan: Disruptions at PTI's virtual gathering | Race To Power

Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan and former Foreign minister Mahmood Qureshi have once again been indicted in the Cipher case. The two leaders have pleaded not guilty to their involvement in any offense.

Pakistan: Imran Khan and Mahmood Qureshi indicted again in Cipher case

Pakistan's Ex-PM Imran Khan and Ex-FM Mahmood Qureshi indicted again in Cipher case

As Pakistan gears up for its February polls, former pm Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-insaf party is grappling to earn a seat in the contest, and it appears that their only way to do so would involve the country's other mainstream parties, including the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz PML-N ) and the Pakistan peoples’ party (PPP).

Pakistan: PTI leaders announce possibility of talks with PML-N & PPP

Pakistan has officially entered election season. But with a february 8th polling date, a Pakistan election without Imran Khan or his party would be incomplete. In a first since his arrest following his conviction on the 5th of august, Imran Khan spoke to members of the press at Rawalpindi’s Adiala prison.

Pakistan: Trial in cipher case continues as Imran Khan steps down from PTI chair

Political conundrum continues in Pakistan. According to the two latest developments, Pakistan's former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Imran Khan is set to step down while Nawaz Sharif has been acquitted in the Avenfield case.

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan to step down as PTI Chief, Gohar Khan nominated | Race to Power

<p>Ousted Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) replaced Khan as party head and appointed a barrister named Gohar Khan as the party chief on Saturday (Dec 2).</p>

<p>Imran Khan, who remains in prison since August 2023 after conviction in a corruption case, claims that the charges against him have been strategically crafted to prevent him from participating in the upcoming elections. In Pakistan, the military-intelligence nexus, dubbed as establishment, continues to remain the real power behind the semblance of democracy that emerges from Islamabad's Prime Minister's Office.</p>

<p>Khan has suggested that the 'establishment' ousted him at Washington's direction in April 2022, and subsequently ensured his imprisonment in the coming months.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-arrest-how-isi-angels-rule-pakistan-590710">Imran Khan arrest: How ISI 'angels' rule Pakistan</a></strong></p>

<p>Khan founded Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party in 1996, four years after he became the South Asian country's only Cricket World Cup winning captain, and one of the most recognisable faces in and beyond Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: The many shades of Imran Khan</strong></p>

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<p>Khan's fortunes changed dramatically in 2018 when the PTI emerged as the largest bloc in the National Assembly, catapulting him to the premiership at the purported direction of the 'establishment'.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
His tenure was cut short in April 2022 when a vote of no confidence was orchestrated by a coalition led by long-established parties.</p>

<h2><strong>Why change in leadership?</strong></h2>

<p>This leadership change came after the Election Commission of Pakistan cautioned the PTI about the potential loss of its symbol – a cricket bat – unless an internal ballot was held within the party.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/no-bat-for-imran-khan-pakistans-election-commission-may-take-away-ptis-electoral-symbol-662157">No bat for Imran Khan? Pakistan's election commission may take away PTI's electoral symbol</a></strong></p>

<p>Pakistan has one of the lowest literacy rates in South Asia, with some of Imran Khan's strongholds in the predominantly tribal Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province particularly backwards in terms of Human Development Indicators. Voters in these tribal areas identify Khan's party primarily with its 'bat' symbol. Given Khan's acclaimed record as one of the finest cricketers Pakistan has ever produced, his party is identified with the cricket bat across Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/where-is-pakistan-headed-after-imran-khans-arrest-towards-coup-or-civil-war-591143">Where is Pakistan headed after Imran Khan's arrest, violent protests: Towards coup or civil war?</a></strong></p>

<p>Despite being barred from standing in the party poll due to his imprisonment, Imran Khan continues to be among the most popular leaders in the country.</p>

<p>National elections are scheduled in Pakistan for February.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ousted Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) replaced Khan as party head and appointed a barrister named Gohar Khan as the party chief on Saturday (Dec 2).

Ousted Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) replaced Khan as party head and appointed a barrister named Gohar Khan as the party chief on Saturday (Dec 2). Imran Khan, who remains in prison since August 2023 after conviction in a corruption case, claims that the charges against him have been strategically crafted to prevent him from participating in the upcoming elections. In Pakistan, the military-intelligence nexus, dubbed as establishment, continues to remain the real power behind the semblance of democracy that emerges from Islamabad's Prime Minister's Office. Khan has suggested that the 'establishment' ousted him at Washington's direction in April 2022, and subsequently ensured his imprisonment in the coming months. Also read | Imran Khan arrest: How ISI 'angels' rule Pakistan Khan founded Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party in 1996, four years after he became the South Asian country's only Cricket World Cup winning captain, and one of the most recognisable faces in and beyond Pakistan. Also watch | Gravitas Plus: The many shades of Imran Khan × Khan's fortunes changed dramatically in 2018 when the PTI emerged as the largest bloc in the National Assembly, catapulting him to the premiership at the purported direction of the 'establishment'. His tenure was cut short in April 2022 when a vote of no confidence was orchestrated by a coalition led by long-established parties. Why change in leadership? This leadership change came after the Election Commission of Pakistan cautioned the PTI about the potential loss of its symbol – a cricket bat – unless an internal ballot was held within the party. Also read | No bat for Imran Khan? Pakistan's election commission may take away PTI's electoral symbol Pakistan has one of the lowest literacy rates in South Asia, with some of Imran Khan's strongholds in the predominantly tribal Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province particularly backwards in terms of Human Development Indicators. Voters in these tribal areas identify Khan's party primarily with its 'bat' symbol. Given Khan's acclaimed record as one of the finest cricketers Pakistan has ever produced, his party is identified with the cricket bat across Pakistan. Also read | Where is Pakistan headed after Imran Khan's arrest, violent protests: Towards coup or civil war? Despite being barred from standing in the party poll due to his imprisonment, Imran Khan continues to be among the most popular leaders in the country. National elections are scheduled in Pakistan for February. (With inputs from agencies)

PTI lets go founder Imran Khan as party captain to save 'bat' for elections

Imran to step down as PTI Chief, Nawaz Sharif gets acquitted in Avenfield case

Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif has launched a scathing attack at Imran Khan's sponsor. Sharif blamed PTI's sponsors for the abysmal state of the country's economy. Addressing a ceremony at the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Sharif said political stability and long-term policies are necessary to boost investor confidence to uplift Pakistan's economy.

Pakistan: Nawaz Sharif Steps Up Attack on Imran Khan| Race to Power

<p>Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has called on the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to take concrete actions to ensure a fair electoral environment for all political parties participating in the upcoming general elections. This comes as two PTI supporters on Saturday (Nov 25) were injured in a clash with police during a workers' convention in the Sahibabad area.</p>

<p>PTI claimed that the oppression against its leaders and supporters persisted despite the letters by the chief election commissioner to the federal and provincial caretaker governments requesting a "level playing field."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The party is facing the worst constitutional and legal crises, a PTI spokesperson said and added that "practical and effective" steps, rather than mere correspondence, are necessary to address the ongoing challenges.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-major-search-underway-for-13-people-after-ship-sinks-off-lesbos-island-663098">Greece: Major search underway for 13 people after ship sinks off Lesbos island</a></p>

<p>The party also highlighted its inability to engage in political activities, with restrictions on the coverage of PTI leaders, including Imran Khan.</p>

<p>PTI also alleged that its workers are being forced to leave the party after being subjected to enforced disappearances. The party spokesperson expressed concern about the state's alleged efforts to exclude PTI from the electoral race.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/why-internet-is-going-gaga-over-this-59mn-wedding-of-the-century-in-paris-663090">Why internet is going gaga over this $59mn 'wedding of the century' in Paris</a></p>

<h2><strong>Clash between PTI workers, police&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Despite the imposition of Section 144 by the district administration, PTI attempted to hold the party convention event, leading to a confrontation with the police on Saturday (Nov 25).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The situation escalated as PTI workers pelted stones at the police, resulting in injuries on both sides.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/international-day-of-non-violence-against-women-2023-forms-of-violence-against-women-663064">International day of non-violence against women 2023: Forms of violence against women</a></strong></p>

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<p>PTI Vice Chairman Sher Afzal Marwat, addressing the crowd after the clash, criticised the "double standards" in allowing other political parties to hold workers' conventions while restricting PTI.</p>

<p>He declared that the day of the general elections, February 8, would be a "day of reckoning and accountability." Marwat expressed the party's support for the Pakistan Army but claimed that PTI was being "pushed to the wall." He also condemned the alleged firing at the party's workers' convention, claiming that two PTI workers were seriously injured.<br />
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The spokesperson urged the chief justice to take strict action against those responsible for the gunfire.</p>

<p>PTI has also filed a case in the Peshawar High Court, seeking permission to hold workers' conventions, and the court has warned of summoning the caretaker chief minister and chief election commissioner if PTI is not allowed to carry out political activities in the province.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has called on the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to take concrete actions to ensure a fair electoral environment for all political parties participating in the upcoming general elections.

Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has called on the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to take concrete actions to ensure a fair electoral environment for all political parties participating in the upcoming general elections. This comes as two PTI supporters on Saturday (Nov 25) were injured in a clash with police during a workers' convention in the Sahibabad area. PTI claimed that the oppression against its leaders and supporters persisted despite the letters by the chief election commissioner to the federal and provincial caretaker governments requesting a "level playing field." The party is facing the worst constitutional and legal crises, a PTI spokesperson said and added that "practical and effective" steps, rather than mere correspondence, are necessary to address the ongoing challenges. Also Read | Greece: Major search underway for 13 people after ship sinks off Lesbos island The party also highlighted its inability to engage in political activities, with restrictions on the coverage of PTI leaders, including Imran Khan. PTI also alleged that its workers are being forced to leave the party after being subjected to enforced disappearances. The party spokesperson expressed concern about the state's alleged efforts to exclude PTI from the electoral race. Also Read | Why internet is going gaga over this $59mn 'wedding of the century' in Paris Clash between PTI workers, police Despite the imposition of Section 144 by the district administration, PTI attempted to hold the party convention event, leading to a confrontation with the police on Saturday (Nov 25). The situation escalated as PTI workers pelted stones at the police, resulting in injuries on both sides. Watch | International day of non-violence against women 2023: Forms of violence against women × PTI Vice Chairman Sher Afzal Marwat, addressing the crowd after the clash, criticised the "double standards" in allowing other political parties to hold workers' conventions while restricting PTI. He declared that the day of the general elections, February 8, would be a "day of reckoning and accountability." Marwat expressed the party's support for the Pakistan Army but claimed that PTI was being "pushed to the wall." He also condemned the alleged firing at the party's workers' convention, claiming that two PTI workers were seriously injured. The spokesperson urged the chief justice to take strict action against those responsible for the gunfire. PTI has also filed a case in the Peshawar High Court, seeking permission to hold workers' conventions, and the court has warned of summoning the caretaker chief minister and chief election commissioner if PTI is not allowed to carry out political activities in the province. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: PTI seeks fair elections as workers clash with police during party convention

<p>Imran Khan, Pakistan's only Cricket World Cup-winning captain-turned-ousted prime minister, may lose the bat as the electoral symbol of his Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) political party. The development comes after the Election Commission of Pakistan on Thursday (Nov 23) warned PTI to hold intra-party polls within three weeks or it will lose its electoral symbol.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But since Imran Khan's supporters pulled off a 'mini-intifada' in May against Pakistan's powerful military, a number of high-profile exits from the PTI have rocked the boat of populism Khan was sailing in.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/to-coup-or-not-coup-pakistan-armys-options-after-imran-khans-mini-intifada-592986">To coup or not coup: Pakistan Army’s options after Imran Khan’s 'mini-intifada'</a></strong></p>

<p>Since August 2023, Khan has been in custody following a conviction in a corruption case, among dozens of cases lodged against him since he was ousted from power after a parliamentary no-trust vote in April 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Imran Khan's potential loss of Bat: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan has one of the lowest literacy rates in South Asia, with some of Imran Khan's strongholds in the predominantly tribal Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province particularly backwards in terms of Human Development Indicators. Voters in these tribal areas identify Khan's party primarily with its bat symbol. Given Khan's acclaimed record as one of the finest cricketers Pakistan has ever produced, his party is identified with the Cricket Bat across Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In fact, 'Ballay pe thappa' (Stamp on the Bat) was the defining rallying call for Khan's supporters in 2018 when the PTI chief, then backed by Pakistan's army-intelligence complex, managed to put together a coalition to be in Islamabad's Prime Minister's Office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The loss of the bat may very well translate into a loss of identity for embattled Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How exactly can PTI lose its Bat symbol?</strong></h2>

<p>On August 3, 2023, just two days before Khan was arrested after a court sentenced him to three years in jail for illegally selling state gifts, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had warned PTI that it could be declared ineligible to obtain an election symbol if the intraparty elections are not organised.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-pakistans-ousted-pm-imran-khans-toshakhana-woes-give-him-3-years-in-jail-622728">Explained | Pakistan's ousted PM Imran Khan's Toshakhana woes land him in jail for 3 years</a></strong></p>

<p>According to Pakistan's Dawn newspaper, the ECP mentioned in the notice that it had already served two notices to the PTI, asking the party to conduct intra-party polls, but it failed to do so.</p>

<p>The intra-party elections in PTI were reportedly due on June 13, 2021, but were not conducted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On November 23, 2023, the ECP ordered the PTI to hold intra-party elections within 20 days or else it would lose bat as its poll symbol.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan: Elections to be conducted by February 11</strong></p>

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<p>After months of deadlock over elections even after the appointment of a caretaker prime minister, Pakistan has scheduled general elections for February 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Imran Khan, Pakistan's only Cricket World Cup-winning captain-turned-ousted prime minister, may lose the bat as the electoral symbol of his Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) political party.

Imran Khan, Pakistan's only Cricket World Cup-winning captain-turned-ousted prime minister, may lose the bat as the electoral symbol of his Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) political party. The development comes after the Election Commission of Pakistan on Thursday (Nov 23) warned PTI to hold intra-party polls within three weeks or it will lose its electoral symbol. But since Imran Khan's supporters pulled off a 'mini-intifada' in May against Pakistan's powerful military, a number of high-profile exits from the PTI have rocked the boat of populism Khan was sailing in. Also read | To coup or not coup: Pakistan Army’s options after Imran Khan’s 'mini-intifada' Since August 2023, Khan has been in custody following a conviction in a corruption case, among dozens of cases lodged against him since he was ousted from power after a parliamentary no-trust vote in April 2022. Imran Khan's potential loss of Bat: What does it mean? Pakistan has one of the lowest literacy rates in South Asia, with some of Imran Khan's strongholds in the predominantly tribal Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province particularly backwards in terms of Human Development Indicators. Voters in these tribal areas identify Khan's party primarily with its bat symbol. Given Khan's acclaimed record as one of the finest cricketers Pakistan has ever produced, his party is identified with the Cricket Bat across Pakistan. In fact, 'Ballay pe thappa' (Stamp on the Bat) was the defining rallying call for Khan's supporters in 2018 when the PTI chief, then backed by Pakistan's army-intelligence complex, managed to put together a coalition to be in Islamabad's Prime Minister's Office. The loss of the bat may very well translate into a loss of identity for embattled Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). How exactly can PTI lose its Bat symbol? On August 3, 2023, just two days before Khan was arrested after a court sentenced him to three years in jail for illegally selling state gifts, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had warned PTI that it could be declared ineligible to obtain an election symbol if the intraparty elections are not organised. Also read | Explained | Pakistan's ousted PM Imran Khan's Toshakhana woes land him in jail for 3 years According to Pakistan's Dawn newspaper, the ECP mentioned in the notice that it had already served two notices to the PTI, asking the party to conduct intra-party polls, but it failed to do so. The intra-party elections in PTI were reportedly due on June 13, 2021, but were not conducted. On November 23, 2023, the ECP ordered the PTI to hold intra-party elections within 20 days or else it would lose bat as its poll symbol. Also watch | Pakistan: Elections to be conducted by February 11 × After months of deadlock over elections even after the appointment of a caretaker prime minister, Pakistan has scheduled general elections for February 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

No bat for Imran Khan? Pakistan's election commission may take away PTI's electoral symbol

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