Investigation against Rawalpindi commissioner finalised, decision expected Friday

ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) committee concluded its investigation on Thursday into the rigging allegations made by former Rawalpindi Commissioner Liaquat Chatta, during the general election held on February 8.

According to sources, the former commissioner appeared before the committee and provided a written statement.

Headed by ECP “honourable member” Nisar Durrani, the investigation committee approved the submission of the report to the ECP.

The report includes statements from thirteen returning officers (ROs) on National Assembly seats and 26 ROs on provincial assemblies’ seats. The written statements of District Returning Officers (DROs) and ROs have also been incorporated into the investigation report.

As per sources, the committee plans to submit its findings to the ECP on Friday (today) for review. The election body will then assess the report to determine any necessary actions against the former commissioner.

Earlier, Chatta issued an apology to the ECP for what he claims were “false rigging allegations”. He expressed “deep regret and acknowledges the harm caused by [his] statements”.

The former commissioner retracted all allegations and resigned from his position on February 17.

In response to the allegations, an inquiry committee headed by Nisar Durrani was formed to investigate the Chatta’s claims.