PTI chief will not contest intra-party election amid legal challenges

Advocate Sher Afzal Marwat has said that Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Imran Khan will not contest the long-awaited intra-party elections, which are mandated by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to be completed by December 13.

The announcement was made by Mr Khan’s lawyer Sher Afzal Khan Marwat, who cited the looming threat of disqualification in the ToshaKhana case as the primary reason behind this strategic move.

Speaking to the media outside Adiala Jail, Marwat explained that the legal landscape, particularly the recent decision by the Election Commission, played a pivotal role in Khan’s decision.

The Election Commission of Pakistan had ordered the PTI to conduct intra-party elections within 20 days, raising concerns about the party’s compliance with its constitution.

Marwat clarified, “Due to the legal ban, Chairman PTI Imran Khan will not be a candidate for Chairman PTI this time.” He emphasized that Imran Khan’s withdrawal was not a sign of permanent disengagement but a strategic move to navigate the current legal challenges.

Despite the setbacks, Marwat assured supporters that Imran Khan remains the chairman of PTI in spirit. “These are temporary difficulties,” he remarked, “whenever this disqualification ends, Imran Khan will be the chairman of PTI again.”

The decision to refrain from the upcoming election is seen as a tactical move to avoid further legal complications and ensure a smoother return to the party leadership once legal matters are resolved.

On November 20, the Election Commission of Pakistan directed the PTI to hold intra-party elections within 20 days.