Tribunal Rejects Election Challenge
The Lahore Election Tribunal has dismissed a petition challenging Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s victory in provincial assembly constituency PP-159. The case was filed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Mehr Sharafat Ali. Judge Rana Zahid Mahmood ruled that the petition failed to meet legal requirements.
Legal and Procedural Issues
The tribunal identified multiple flaws in the petition. It violated Rule 144 of the Election Act 2017, as not every page had the petitioner’s signature. Moreover, the affidavit page certified by the oath commissioner was incomplete, lacking both the petitioner’s name and his father’s name. Consequently, the tribunal deemed the petition legally inadmissible.
Background of the Election Dispute
Mehr Sharafat Ali had contested Maryam Nawaz’s victory in the 2024 general elections, alleging irregularities during the polling process. However, the tribunal found his evidence insufficient and ruled in favor of Maryam Nawaz. Her victory ensures she will continue as Punjab’s Chief Minister and maintains the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz’s (PML-N) control in Pakistan’s most populous province.
Significance of the Ruling
Maryam Nawaz remains a central figure in Pakistani politics. Her win in PP-159 drew attention due to the intense rivalry with PTI. The tribunal’s decision underscores the importance of adhering strictly to legal procedures in election disputes. Furthermore, it highlights the ongoing political tensions between PML-N and PTI, showing that procedural accuracy can determine the success of election petitions and influence the broader political narrative.
