ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday told the election authorities that he visited Ghotki for condolences to the family of the deceased federal minister and he did not take part in any political activity in the constituency.
Prime Minister Khan was issued show cause notice by regional election commissioner of NA-205 Benazirabad over alleged violation of the code of conduct for election. PM had visited the area on June 19.
In response to show cause notice of Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), PM’s counsel Dr. Babar Awan submitted the reply. In his reply, Khan said being a law-abiding person he has not violated any provision of the code of conduct.
He went to Ghotki to extend condolences to the family of deceased federal cabinet member Ali Mohammad Mehr, his counsel maintained.
Mehar a PTI legislator had passed away on May 21 due to a heart attack. After his demise, his National Assembly seat had fallen vacant. ECP is holding by-elections in the constituency. Polling in the constituency is scheduled to be held on July 18.
Dr. Babar said PTI respects electoral laws and code of conduct and the premier during his stay in Ghotki, has not participated in any political program rally nor he made any political statement or press talk.
The country’s election rules bar the government functionaries from taking part in any political activity in the constituency where by-polls are taking place.
Para 17 (Part-B) of the code of conduct bars the president, PM, cabinet members and members of parliament from taking part in the election campaign in any manner.
Dr. Babar Awan implied that the aforementioned clause doesn’t bar religious visits for condolence. He alleged a malicious and baseless complaint was filed by the candidate for his publicity and to attract media attention.
“We reserve the right of filing a proper complaint for initiation of proceedings for making a false and dishonest statement before the commission”, he said.
Dr. Babar asked ECP to provide him a copy of the complaint along with the affidavit. He also requested ECP withdraw show cause notice.
