ECP grants KP CM Sohail Afridi exemption from appearance in hearing

WEB DESK: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) today granted Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi an exemption from personal attendance during a hearing concerning alleged threats to government employees.

The four-member bench, headed by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), was hearing the case in which Afridi and candidate Shehrnaz Bano were summoned over claims of intimidation during the ongoing election campaign. While both did not appear in person, Afridi was represented by his lawyer, Ali Bukhari, who informed the commission that the Chief Minister was attending a meeting and requested exemption from physical attendance. “I have only spoken to the Chief Minister over the phone and have not yet met him in person,” Bukhari added.

The ECP confirmed that notices had been issued to the individuals in their personal capacities. Members of the Commission raised concerns over remarks made during the proceedings, which Bukhari objected to, insisting that the Chief Election Commissioner guide the members on proper protocol.

The case stems from allegations that the KP Chief Minister allegedly threatened government employees during the election process, a violation of the Election Code of Conduct, which bars public office holders from participating in electoral campaigns or attempting to coerce voters or election staff. The ECP secretary noted that Shehrnaz Bano, the spouse of NA-18 Haripur candidate Omar Ayub, was equally implicated in the violations.

The hearing continues as the commission examines the alleged misconduct and its implications for the electoral process in the province.