Islamabad, Pakistan – The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has taken a significant step by issuing non-bailable arrest warrants against former Prime Minister Imran Khan and former Information and Broadcasting Minister Fawad Chaudhry in a contempt case. The warrants were issued due to their failure to appear before the ECP despite multiple warnings.
The ECP had initiated contempt proceedings against Imran Khan, Fawad Chaudhry, and Asad Umar, former party leaders of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), for allegedly using “indecent” language against the ECP and the Chief Election Commissioner, according to Geo TV. The commission had lodged a complaint against them last year, which led to the initiation of the proceedings.
A four-judge bench headed by ECP member Nisar Durrani passed the arrest warrant order after both Imran Khan and Fawad Chaudhry failed to appear before the ECP. However, Asad Umar was granted exemption from appearance on medical grounds after his lawyer informed the commission about his involvement in another case.
Despite being given the opportunity to explain their stand before the ECP, Imran Khan and Fawad Chaudhry chose to challenge the notices and contempt proceedings in higher courts. In January, the Supreme Court allowed the ECP to proceed with the case against them, leading to the framing of charges. Imran Khan, who has been facing multiple cases since his ousting from power in April last year, continues to deal with legal challenges.
The arrest warrants come in the wake of violent protests that erupted across the country on May 9, following Imran Khan’s arrest from the premises of the Islamabad High Court. These protests resulted in clashes between Khan’s supporters and security personnel, leading to casualties on both sides.
The government responded to the violence by launching a massive crackdown on PTI leaders and activists, resulting in numerous arrests. Khan’s party members were accused of attacking civilian and military installations during the protests. The clashes claimed the lives of several individuals, with conflicting reports of the exact death toll.
The ECP has adjourned the hearing until July 25 and expects Imran Khan and Fawad Chaudhry to comply with the arrest warrants. As the legal proceedings unfold, the political landscape in Pakistan remains tense, with these developments further fueling the ongoing political controversies in the country.
