The PTI has rejected the ECP decision, to disqualify former prime minister Imran Khan, and urged the people to take to the streets against it.

“Who are you to give this decision,” PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry said outside the ECP building in Islamabad. “Imran’s disqualification is a slap on Pakistanis.”

The country’s top electoral authority ruled against PTI leader Imran Khan, declaring him ineligible from holding public office after announcing its verdict in the Toshakhana reference. The four-member bench found that Imran was found guilty of corruption.

Fawad, who was talking to reporters alongside party leader Shahbaz Gill, said they have already spoken about their concerns related to the ECP and Chief Election Commissioner Sikander Sultan Raja.

“We did not have any hope from the ECP,” Fawad said and contended that the cases pertaining to Sharif and Zardari were not being heard before the electoral authority. “This is shameful. This decision is not against Imran but against the people.”

The former information minister urged the people to take to the streets for the protection of the Constitution of Pakistan.

The ECP announced its decision under Article 63 1 (p) of the Constitution. It says: “he is for the time being disqualified from being elected or chosen as a member of the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) or of a Provincial Assembly under any law for the time being inforce.”

It has ordered action against Imran under the Criminal Act.

The former ruling party has decided to move to court against the decision.

More to follow