ECP steps back, ROs to fight alleged rigging cases alone

PESHAWAR, June 03: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has decided not to contest the cases of Returning Officers (ROs) against alleged rigging in the February 8 elections.
The Election Tribunal at Peshawar High Court heard a petition against the election results in Karim District.
The Election Commission informed the court about its decision not to contest the cases of ROs against alleged rigging in the February 8 elections.
The counsel for the Election Commission stated that it is clear from the Election Commission's directives that they should not be part of any dispute. They can only assist the court. ROs will fight their cases themselves.
Justice Waqar Ahmed asked the Election Commission's counsel whether the RO was not an officer of the Election Commission. He instructed in writing to inform the court that the RO is not an officer of the Election Commission.
The counsel for the petitioner replied that there are no complaints against the Election Commission, only complaints against ROs and Deputy ROs.
The court requested a response within 7 days and postponed the hearing of the case.