The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday issued the written decision of the July 25 hearings against PTI Chairman Imran Khan for committing contempt of the electoral body and the chief election commissioner, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
According to sources, the ECP had initiated contempt proceedings against the PTI chief, party leader Asad Umar and former information minister Chaudhry last year for allegedly using “intemperate” language against the chief election commissioner and the electoral watchdog.
On July 25, a four-member ECP, led by its Member Nisar Durrani heard the case in which PTI chief Imran Khan appeared before the ECP bench alongside his counsel, Shoaib Shaheen.
During the proceedings, a member of the ECP bench stated that they had intended to indict the former prime minister in the case today.
However, the PTI chief’s counsel requested the electoral watchdog to defer the hearing as he needed more time to gather the case record.
In response, the ECP asserted, “It is your responsibility to manage the file and case record.” Subsequently, the watchdog accepted the counsel’s plea and postponed the indictment until August 2.
It also directed him to ensure Imran’s presence during the next hearing. According to the written decision, Imran Khan Niazi’s counsel states that he has been engaged a few days ago and does not possess the record of the case. He seeks time to get documents and to prepare the case for the assistance of the Commission.
Responding to the request, the court allowed him that he may get the documents from the concerned Law wing. The court further held that Imran Khan has joined the proceedings, therefore, the non-bailable warrant of arrest against the respondent is suspended for the time being. The court also summoned PTI Chairman in a personal capacity on August 2 in contempt Election Commission case