ECP refuses to recognize Achakzai as PkMAP chief over failure to hold intra-party polls
The Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) has been facing criticism for its failure to hold intra-party polls as required under Pakistan’s electoral laws. In an effort to address these concerns, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) held a hearing on Thursday regarding Mehmood Khan Achakzai’s leadership and the party’s constitution.
The ECP bench, headed by Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja, consisted of five members who listened attentively as Aimal Mandokhail, PkMAP’s counsel, presented his arguments. The chief election commissioner asked Mandokhail to submit a power of attorney document on behalf of the party chairman Achakzai.
Mandokhail explained that the party had signed the document but pointed out that there was currently no party head due to the lack of intra-party elections. He emphasized that the power of attorney would be placed in record, and an order would be issued regarding its acceptability.
The ECP bench then turned its attention to two other cases related to PkMAP’s leadership and constitution amendments. The commission asked Mandokhail to represent the party in these proceedings, but this was subject to a decision on the power of attorney.
Pakistan National Accountability Bureau (PNAB) had also filed a case against Achakzai regarding his alleged involvement in corruption scandals. However, the ECP bench did not address this matter during its hearing on Thursday.
The PkMAP has been facing criticism for its failure to hold intra-party elections as required by law. The party’s leadership and constitution amendments have raised questions about their legitimacy. In response to these concerns, the ECP held a hearing to address them and determine whether Mehmood Khan Achakzai should be recognized as the party’s chairman.
The outcome of this hearing will likely impact PkMAP’s ability to hold intra-party elections in the future. The Election Commission of Pakistan has set deadlines for intra-party polls, including October 1, 2025, and June 19, 2026. If the ECP decides that Achakzai is not fit to lead the party, it could potentially bar him from holding office.
The PkMAP’s leadership and constitution amendments have been a subject of controversy in recent months. The party has faced criticism for its alleged involvement in corruption scandals, which led to the resignation of several high-ranking officials. However, the ECP bench will now determine whether these allegations are sufficient grounds for Achakzai to be recognized as the party’s chairman.
The outcome of this hearing is expected to have significant implications for PkMAP and Pakistan’s electoral landscape. The Election Commission of Pakistan has a responsibility to ensure that all political parties comply with the law, and any decisions made by the commission will likely impact the country’s democratic process.
Source: Dawn
Based on reporting from Dawn.
