MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): The Election Commission of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) on Saturday said it has rejected the application of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Azad Jammu and Kashmir(AJK) for registration after citing violations related to financial irregularities.
According to a press release issued by the Election Commission spokesperson, PTI AJK had submitted its application for registration in light of the Supreme Court judgment and relevant election laws.
In connection with the examination of the application, the Election Commission appointed an Audit Officer to audit the accounts of the political parties in accordance with the relevant laws and rules so that the accounts and financial documents submitted could be reviewed.
The Audit Officer pointed out in his report that the applicant party has violated Rule 121 of the Election Rules in the details of financial affairs and accounts, the AJK’s electoral body said.
In light of the above objections, the commission sent the matter to the Audit Officer for re-examination at the request of PTI. After re-examination, the Audit Officer again rejected the violation of Rule 121 and the objections related to the accounts in his report.
“Later, the Election Commission provided a full opportunity for a personal hearing to the representatives of PTI Azad Kashmir and their counsel.”
After a detailed review of the arguments of the parties and the available record, the Election Commission came to the conclusion that the applicant party has failed to fulfill the requirements of Rule 121, the press release added.
The Election Commission said it then decided to reject the application for registration of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf based on the violation of the rules and non-fulfillment of the legal requirements related to accounts.
“The Election Commission of Azad Jammu and Kashmir reiterates that the registration and supervision of all political parties is carried out in accordance with the Constitution and law, on the basis of transparency and equality,” it concluded.
