Former Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has expressed concerns about the potential for horse-trading in the upcoming February 8 general elections, as the Imran-led party is set to contest without its symbol. The Supreme Court recently ruled in favor of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), stripping PTI of its ‘bat’ symbol just days before the elections.
Despite the setback, Barrister Gohar hopes that PTI-backed candidates will still adhere to party directions in voting after the formation of the next assemblies. He announced that the party would file a review petition against the Supreme Court’s verdict, claiming that it deprived nationals of their rights and undermined democracy.
Gohar urged PTI leaders, workers, and candidates not to be discouraged, emphasizing the importance of protecting their votes while complying with the court’s judgment. He assured that the party would unveil the list of its endorsed candidates and their symbols on official platforms within the next three days.
Responding to questions, Barrister Gohar denied any meeting with the chairman of Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM) and rejected the idea of an alliance to curb horse-trading. He also expressed hope for the early release of the incarcerated PTI founder, Imran Khan, but noted that a hearing date had not been assigned yet.
Regarding a raid at his house, Gohar stated that the Inspector General (IG) Islamabad had assured accountability for responsible officials, with some police officers suspended. He emphasized that such actions against PTI leaders were not unprecedented and called for them to be stopped.
In a separate address, PTI central leader Sher Afzal Marwat alleged that pre-poll rigging had begun, forcing their candidates to contest independently. He criticized the Supreme Court’s verdict and questioned why PTI, despite being founded by Akbar S Babar, was deprived of its electoral sign. Marwat urged Pakistanis to overcome fear and demonstrate their strength on the polling day, February 8.
