On Saturday, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) granted approval for the nomination papers of Maryam Nawaz, the Senior Vice President of the Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N).
However, the ECP rejected the nomination papers of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders Zulfi Bukhari and Azam Swati from various constituencies.
Maryam Nawaz’s spokesperson confirmed that her nomination papers for the Lahore and Sargodha constituencies were approved by the returning officers (ROs).
Maryam Nawaz, in turn, expressed her intention to contest the general elections from constituencies to be decided by the party.
Maryam Nawaz submitted nomination papers for two National Assembly constituencies (NA-19 and NA-120) and four Punjab Assembly constituencies (PP-159, PP-160, PP-165, and PP-80).
In response to the rejection of Azam Swati’s papers, Nawaz Sharif’s counsel, Jahangir Jadoon Advocate, emphasized the necessity for a candidate contesting elections to be present in the country.
Jadoon, who raised objections against Swati, mentioned that the PTI leader was asked to appear before the RO, and objections would be withdrawn accordingly. The RO later confirmed the rejection of Swati’s nomination papers from NA-15.
Swati’s lawyer, Sohail Swati, mentioned that Azam Khan’s papers were rejected due to alleged fake signatures and objections regarding him being an absconder. They announced their intention to approach the election tribunal against this decision.
Zulfi Bukhari, reacting to the rejection of his papers, stated that his signatures were deemed not genuine, a claim he found “ridiculous.” He asserted that the signatures were notarized and counter-signed by the oath commission.
Bukhari announced his decision to move to court against the decision, alleging the abduction of six people, including his lawyers, proposers, and seconders.
This development occurs on the last day of scrutiny for the nomination papers submitted by candidates aspiring to contest the general elections in 2024.
