ISLAMABAD: PML-N MNA Pervaiz Malik on Saturday filed an application with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) seeking withdrawal of notification barring the elected representatives from campaigning in the NA-120 by-poll.
Pervaiz Malik, who is managing Kulsoom Nawaz’s election campaign as she undergoes treatment for lymphoma in London, submitted that the ECP’s August 1 notification restricting MNAs and MPAs from entering into NA-120 is against the fundamental rights and should be withdrawn.
He contended that the notification violates Articles 15, 16, 17 and 19 of the constitution, which guarantee every citizen the freedom of movement, assembly association and speech.
He argued that the notification is based on the assumption that public office holders of a political party may indulge in corrupt or illegal practices and unduly influence the electorate using public funds and resources.
He stated that this assumption cannot be used to strip a political party or a leader of their right to campaign. He said the commission can define guidelines which ensure transparent practices during election but cannot restrict political activities.
Pervaiz Malik is an MNA from NA-123-Lahore and is at the forefront of PML-N’s campaign to win back the seat that fell vacant after disqualification of Nawaz Sharif by the Supreme Court in Panama Papers case on July 28, 2017.
A strong contest is being expected in the constituency with the three leading parties pushing for a win. Kulsoom Nawaz is up against PTI’s Yasmeen Rashid and PPP’s Faisal Mir in the election, scheduled to be held on September 17, 2017.
Published in Daily Times, August 27th 2017.
