The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has confirmed that it will contest the vacant National Assembly seats left by the disqualifications of senior leaders Omar Ayub Khan and Shibli Faraz. The announcement was made by PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, highlighting the party’s strategy ahead of the upcoming by-elections.
PTI’s Candidate Selection
According to Barrister Gohar, the party has decided to award the ticket for Omar Ayub’s now-vacant seat to his wife. This decision, he emphasized, was personally approved by PTI founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The move signals PTI’s intent to maintain its political influence in constituencies affected by recent disqualifications and to leverage familial and local networks for electoral advantage.
On Shibli Faraz’s vacant seat, the schedule for the by-election has already been announced for 23 October, signaling a tight timeline for political campaigns. Barrister Gohar stressed the party’s commitment to participating fully in these elections, despite ongoing legal challenges.
Legal Challenges in Supreme Court
PTI has filed four separate petitions in the Supreme Court challenging the disqualifications of Omar Ayub and Shibli Faraz. Barrister Gohar noted that none of these petitions have yet been scheduled for hearing. He warned that if the court does not take up the cases before 30 October, the petitions could become legally ineffective, potentially leaving the party without recourse to contest the disqualifications.
Our request is that justice be served without delay. The court should hear these cases promptly so that the truth emerges, Barrister Gohar said. He stressed that PTI is pursuing all legal avenues and is committed to ensuring that decisions comply fully with Pakistan’s constitution and legal framework.
PTI’s Position and Concerns
The party’s leadership has expressed concerns about potential injustices arising from delays in the judicial process. Barrister Gohar underlined that PTI is relying on the judicial system to safeguard democratic principles and ensure that political decisions are based on law, rather than expediency.
By fielding candidates close to the disqualified leaders, PTI appears to be taking a dual approach: participating actively in elections while simultaneously challenging what it describes as unfair disqualifications. This reflects a broader trend in Pakistani politics, where parties often combine legal action with electoral campaigns to maintain influence and momentum.
Broader Context
Omar Ayub Khan and Shibli Faraz are both prominent figures in PTI, with significant experience in government. Ayub previously served as Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, while Faraz held the position of Federal Minister for Information. Their disqualifications have been seen as a blow to PTI’s parliamentary strength, and the party’s aggressive response underscores its desire to retain these key seats.
By-elections in Pakistan often serve as a barometer for public opinion on ruling and opposition parties, especially after major political upheavals. The outcome of these contests could indicate PTI’s current standing among voters and its ability to mobilize support despite legal and political challenges.
Looking Ahead
Barrister Gohar concluded that PTI remains hopeful that the Supreme Court will hear the cases promptly and deliver justice, allowing the party to contest elections without hindrance. In the meantime, PTI’s preparations for the by-elections are underway, highlighting the party’s determination to remain a central player in Pakistan’s turbulent political landscape.
