CHITRAL, July 30: Former Tehsil Nazim of Chitral, Sartaj Ahmad Khan, has strongly condemned the Election Commission of Pakistan’s decision to disqualify MNA Abdul Latif Chitrali, calling it an attack on the democratic and constitutional rights of the people of Chitral.
He said the decision has effectively robbed the people of NA-1 (Upper and Lower Chitral) of their rightful representation in the National Assembly.
“The people of Chitral elected Abdul Latif Chitrali through a peaceful and democratic process. Disqualifying him is a direct insult to the public mandate,” he stated.
Sartaj Ahmad Khan said the move not only undermines the people’s choice but also violates constitutional values and democratic norms. He warned that such actions weaken trust in national institutions and hurt the democratic process.
He demanded that the Election Commission immediately reverse its decision. He also called for the restoration of the people’s democratic rights and insisted that Abdul Latif Chitrali be allowed to complete his term in office.
Furthermore, he urged that the matter be taken to the superior judiciary to ensure that justice is served. Sartaj emphasized that the people of Chitral will not accept this injustice. He said they will continue to raise their voice on every legal and democratic platform to protect their right to representation.
The ECP took the controversial decision even though a final decision is pending on his appeal filed in Islamabad High Court.
The ECP has disqualified MNA Latif following his sentencing by an anti-terrorism court in Islamabad in a case related to the May 9, 2023, arson attacks on state institutions that took place after the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan.