ECP summons KP CM Sohail Afridi over controversial remarks

WEB DESK: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has issued a notice to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi over his recent statements regarding government employees and election staff, saying his remarks could threaten the peaceful conduct of the upcoming by-elections.

According to the ECP, Afridi’s comments at a public rally included threats directed at the district administration, police, and election officials, while also inciting the general public. The commission expressed concern that such statements could endanger the lives of officials on election duty and voters, potentially complicating the peaceful and fair conduct of the elections.

The notice also highlighted that a fugitive criminal was present alongside the Chief Minister during the rally, raising further security concerns. The ECP has summoned Afridi in person tomorrow to respond to the notice and explain his statements.

In addition, the Election Commission has directed the Provincial Election Commissioner to convene a meeting with the Chief Secretary and Inspector General of Police to ensure adequate measures are taken for a secure polling process.

The ECP emphasised that responsible conduct from political leaders is essential to maintain the integrity and safety of the electoral process, particularly during by-elections where tensions can run high.

Earlier today, Afridi’s spokesperson clarified controversial remarks he made during PTI’s Abbottabad gathering, stressing they were “taken out of context” and not a threat. Afridi had addressed potential interference in upcoming provincial elections, highlighting that any such actions are illegal and punishable by law. The spokesperson pointed out that CM’s intent was to uphold electoral integrity and ensure free and fair elections, not to intimidate opposition parties. The statement aimed to defuse political backlash, reinforcing that the comments were legal warnings, not personal threats, amid heightened scrutiny and social media speculation.