ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s top court has dismissed a petition, urging the annulment of the February 8 elections.
The three-member bench of Supreme Court of Pakistan, led by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, issued the ruling as the petitioner, Ali Khan, failed to appear before the court. Justices Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Musarrat Hilali were also part of the bench.
A penalty of 500,000 rupees fine was imposed on Ali Khan for his absence. The court noted that Ali Khan had notified via email about being abroad.
Ali Khan, the petitioner, had alleged electoral fraud and demanded a fresh election. Nevertheless, due to his non-attendance, the court threw out the plea.
During the hearing on February 19, the petitioner withdrew the request to nullify the February 8 elections. Chief Justice Isa expressed disappointment and ordered authorities to ensure Ali Khan’s presence in court.
The hearing on the plea was adjourned until February 21, with a notice issued to retired Brigadier Ali Khan through the Ministry of Defense.
Pakistan held the general elections earlier this week, with violence-marred polling, allegations of rigging and no clear winner.
Shehbaz for PM and Zardari for President as PPP, PML-N join hands to form govt
