Former Member of the National Assembly (MNA) Jamshed Dasti has been handed a seven-year prison sentence in a long-standing fake degree case. The decision was announced by a district and sessions judge in Multan, marking a significant legal blow for the Awami Raj Party chairman.
Court Verdict Against Jamshed Dasti
The court ruled that Dasti’s BA degree was fake, resulting in a seven-year jail term under Articles 62 and 63 of the Constitution. In addition to this, he was convicted under Sections 420 (cheating) and 471 (use of forged documents) of the Pakistan Penal Code, along with other charges.
The total sentence awarded amounts to 17 years, of which 10 years are bailable. This development underscores the seriousness of the legal consequences faced by politicians involved in submitting fake academic credentials.
ECP Disqualification Before Court Ruling
This sentencing follows the earlier disqualification of Jamshed Dasti by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in July 2025. The ECP had disqualified him for presenting fake academic credentials and declared his National Assembly seat vacant.
In its detailed judgment, the ECP’s three-member bench stated that:
“Dasti has made false statements and incorrect declarations, thereby committing corrupt practices under Section 167 and 173 of the Elections Act, 2017, punishable under Section 174.”
This disqualification came after months of scrutiny, during which the ECP ordered the verification of Dasti’s educational certificates through the Karachi Education Board.
Background of the Fake Degree Case
Jamshed Dasti, elected from NA-175 Muzaffargarh in the last general elections, has been embroiled in multiple legal battles regarding his academic qualifications. Several petitions were filed against him by political figures including Ameer Akbar, Zulfiqar Dogar, and Sardar Faizul Hassan.
He faced proceedings under Articles 62 and 63 of the Constitution as well as Sections 4, 9, and 137 of the Elections Act, 2017. The culmination of these proceedings has now resulted in his conviction and sentencing.
Political Fallout for Jamshed Dasti
As chairman of the Awami Raj Party, Dasti had positioned himself as a vocal political figure in Muzaffargarh and beyond. However, the conviction and earlier disqualification significantly diminish his political standing.
His sentencing highlights ongoing concerns about the credibility of candidates contesting elections in Pakistan. The case also reflects the broader enforcement of accountability measures under the Elections Act, 2017.
Implications for Electoral Politics
The ruling sends a strong message about the consequences of submitting forged documents and false declarations in elections. It is expected that the verdict will not only impact Dasti’s political career but also serve as a warning to other lawmakers facing similar allegations.
With his prison sentence and disqualification in effect, Dasti is now barred from holding public office, marking a turning point in his political trajectory.
