PHC stays ECP order, directs it to return BAT symbol to PTI

Peshawar: The Peshawar High Court (PHC) on Tuesday issued an interim stay on the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) order concerning intra-party elections.

The PHC directed the ECP to return the symbol of 'BAT' to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) after a single bench heard arguments from both sides based on PTI's petition.

The PHC, in suspending the ECP order, emphasized the significance of a political party's symbol, asserting it as a fundamental right in numerous legal precedents. Barrister Ali Zafar, addressing reporters outside the court, highlighted the court's role in thwarting what he referred to as a conspiracy against PTI, its leaders, and workers.

PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan expressed gratitude to the Peshawar High Court for its notable judgment, stating that the verdict restored public trust in the judiciary. Addressing concerns about potential legal challenges, Khan explained that during the four-hour argument, they emphasized the illegality of the ECP order, and the judge's remarks affirmed the reality of the case.

In response to a query regarding protests by lawyers against the PHC's decision, Khan emphasized the importance of justice, noting that they had received fair treatment in other courts, including the Lahore High Court. He underlined the judiciary's consistent commitment to delivering judgments in accordance with the law.

Besides, Gohar Ali Khan addressed the issue of halted priority lists submitted to the ECP, emphasizing the significance of the 227 seats involved. Despite challenges, he expressed relief that PTI remained part of the electoral process, citing the judiciary's role in upholding justice.

The PHC, in its order, stayed the ECP's decision and indicated that the case would be further examined by a division bench.