ECP to pronounce verdict of Toshakhana case against Imran Khan today

Last updated on: 21 October,2022 11:52 am

ECP to pronounce verdict of Toshakhana case against Imran Khan today

ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) will  announce verdict of Toshakhana case against former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan today (Friday). 

On September 19, the ECP had reserved its verdict in the Toshakhana case moved by Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), seeking disqualification of  Imran Khan for alleged foul play related to Toshakhana gifts.

Barrister Ali Zafar and Barrister Gohar Ali Khan represented the PTI chairman as defence lawyers in the case hearing.

A five-member ECP bench headed by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja heard arguments before reserving its decision. 

It is pertinent to mention here that Imran while submitting a written reply in the previous hearing had denied the allegations of concealing Toshakhana gifts in the reports.

The Toshakhana case was brought before the electoral watchdog last year after the Pakistan Information Commission (PIC) had accepted an application on the matter and had directed the Cabinet Division to provide information about the gifts received by then-prime minister Imran Khan from foreign dignitaries.

Tight security arrangements in ECP and Red Zone

Foolproof security arrangements have been made in the ECP and Red Zone, pertaining to the announcement of reserved verdict.

ECP has deployed tight security in the entire area and especially around the building, considering the arrival of PTI workers and possible riots.

Furthermore, tear gas shells and other essential equipment have also been delivered to the security officials, adding that more than 1000 officials have been appointed by the Islamabad administration by forming teams under the supervision of police officers, Including FC and Rangers officials.

Under the security arrangements, the entry of persons unrelated to the case into the Election Commission has been prohibited, while the entry in the red zone is also limited.

Besides that, notices were issued on Thursday to the PTI chairman Imran Khan and other parties in connection with the decision of the ECP in the Toshakhana reference.