ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has refused to recognize Mahmood Khan Achakzai as the head of the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PKMAP), citing the party’s failure to hold intra-party elections.
A five-member commission headed by the Chief Election Commissioner heard the case regarding PKMAP’s failure to conduct intra-party polls, amendments to the party constitution, and objections to party accounts.
The Chief Election Commissioner questioned the lawyer about a power of attorney submitted to the ECP, asking, “Whose signatures are on the power of attorney you have submitted?” The lawyer responded that it bears the signatures of the party chairman.
The Chief Election Commissioner stated that since intra-party elections have not been held, “there is currently no party chairman.” He added that the commission would place the power of attorney on record and would issue a detailed order regarding its acceptance.
The PKMAP lawyer requested more time to present further arguments. The commission subsequently adjourned the hearing until August 19.
The case revolves around PKMAP’s non-compliance with the legal requirement to hold intra-party elections, along with objections raised over changes to the party constitution and its financial accounts. Due to the absence of valid intra-party elections, the ECP has maintained that the party currently has no recognized office-bearers, including a chairman.
