The Supreme Court (SC) suspended the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) decision to disqualify MNA Adil Bazai. A three-member bench, led by Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, restored Bazai’s National Assembly membership. The suspension remains effective until December 12.
ECP Disqualification for Floor Crossing
The ECP disqualified Adil Bazai in response to a reference filed by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif. The disqualification accused Bazai of floor crossing, a violation under electoral laws.
Adil Bazai, an independent candidate from Quetta, joined the PML-N through an affidavit but switched to the Sunni Ittehad Council a few days later. The ECP ruled this as a breach of constitutional provisions related to party loyalty.
Bazai Denies Allegations
During the hearing, Adil Bazai’s lawyer rejected the allegations. He argued that the affidavit confirming Bazai’s PML-N membership was fake.
“The MNA did not officially join the PML-N,” the lawyer stated. He claimed the affidavit was forged to target his client politically.
Nawaz Sharif’s Stance
Nawaz Sharif’s lawyer countered Bazai’s claims. He accused Bazai of betraying party trust.
Sharif’s legal team highlighted Bazai’s role in critical votes, including on the finance bill and constitutional amendments. “His floor crossing undermined the constitutional framework,” Sharif’s lawyer stated.
Legal Arguments and SC Decision
The SC bench examined arguments from both sides. Justice Mansoor Ali Shah emphasized the importance of fair representation. He stated that suspending the ECP verdict was necessary to ensure justice until the case is fully resolved.
The court restored Bazai’s status as an MNA, allowing him to continue his parliamentary role until December 12.
Political Implications
Adil Bazai’s reinstatement is expected to stir political debate. The ruling comes at a time when party loyalties and floor crossing are under intense scrutiny in Pakistan’s political landscape.
Observers believe this decision could set a precedent for future cases of disqualification and floor crossing.
Next Steps
The SC will hear further arguments in the case before issuing a final verdict. Meanwhile, Bazai will resume his duties as an MNA.
The ECP is likely to defend its decision in the next hearing. Both sides are preparing to present more evidence and legal arguments.
Background on the Case
Adil Bazai won his National Assembly seat as an independent candidate from Quetta. After his victory, he initially pledged loyalty to the PML-N. However, his sudden shift to the Sunni Ittehad Council led to allegations of floor crossing.
Nawaz Sharif filed a reference with the ECP, accusing Bazai of violating the constitution. The ECP ruled in Sharif’s favor, disqualifying Bazai from his parliamentary seat.
With the SC’s intervention, Bazai has received temporary relief. The final decision will clarify whether his actions constitute floor crossing under Pakistan’s constitution.
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