The PTI has given a ticket to Omar Ayub’s wife, Shahrnaz Omar Ayub, from NA-18 constituency.
ECP Summons KP CM Over Threats, Code Violations. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday summoned Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi for threatening the administration and violating the election code of conduct during a by-election rally in Haripur.
A by election is scheduled in NA-18 on November 23 after the disqualification of PTI leader Omar Ayub. PTI has nominated his wife, Shahrnaz Omar Ayub for the seat.
It is pertinent to mention that Imran Khan has nominated Sohail Afridi for the post of CM KP.
Earlier this week, the chief minister addressed a rally in Havelian. The ECP said in a statement that Sohail Afridi threatened the district administration, police and election staff. The Commission also said that he encouraged the crowd to act against officials.
Due to the seriousness of the incident, the ECP issued notices to Sohail Afridi and Shahrnaz Omar Ayub for violating the Election Act 2017 and the code of conduct. The Commission noted that the chief minister’s behavior has created obstacles for a peaceful by election in NA 18. It added that his actions have put the lives of government officials, polling staff and voters at risk.
The ECP directed the Provincial Election Commissioner to meet the Chief Secretary and the IG Police immediately. It asked them to review the situation and report back after taking security measures.
The Commission also wrote to the Interior Ministry, requesting strict security in the constituency with the help of federal law enforcement agencies. The aim is to protect the District Returning Officer, Returning Officers, polling staff and the public.
The ECP warned that it will take strict legal action against anyone who tries to disturb the election process during the by election.
The KP Chief Minister or his office have not responded to the notice yet.
