The Peshawar High Court has directed legal representatives of Muhammad Sohail Afridi to submit additional documents in a petition challenging a notice issued by the Election Commission of Pakistan.
The case was heard by a two-member bench comprising Justice Syed Arshad Ali and Justice Farah Jamshed, who stated that the matter would be decided on the next hearing after reviewing the submitted material.
During proceedings, lawyers for the chief minister argued that the ECP notice was issued over allegations related to a public rally held in Haripur. They maintained that the rally did not fall within the constituency where the by-election was taking place, raising questions over the commission’s jurisdiction.
The petitioner’s counsel also sought to highlight what they described as selective action by the Election Commission. They pointed out that Maryam Nawaz Sharif had addressed a public gathering on the same day, yet no action was taken against her.
According to the lawyers, a complaint had been filed before the Election Commission regarding this matter, but it was dismissed. They further informed the court that they had not been provided with a copy of the ECP’s decision rejecting their complaint.
In response, the court directed the Election Commission to furnish the relevant order so it could be included in the case record. The bench also instructed the petitioner’s legal team to submit any additional documents they wish to rely on.
The hearing underscored legal arguments concerning jurisdiction and alleged discriminatory treatment, while the court emphasised the need for complete documentation before proceeding to a final verdict.
The case is expected to be taken up again on the next date of hearing, where the court will review all submitted evidence before announcing its decision.
