MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): The Election Tribunal has dismissed a petition filed by PTI candidate Chaudhry Maqbool, confirming Chaudhry Ismail Gujar of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) as the rightful winner from constituency LA-35 Jammu 2.
Chaudhry Maqbool (who was originally declared a winner in the election on a PTI ticket) had raised the protest challenging the result citing irregularities and demanding a review on the vote from this constituency. At the end of reviewing the evidence and getting to hear the arguments on these two sides, however, the Election Tribunal replicated the earlier ruling that Chaudhry Ismail Gujar had won a lawful election.
Tribunal officials indicated that there was no adequate evidence to warrant the overturning of the result. The ruling confirms the Election Tribunal’s commitment to ensuring transparency and legal accuracy in the electoral process.
This ruling ends the weeks of speculation on the LA-35 seat. The move by the Election Tribunal serves to strengthen the powers of electoral organs and send signals on the respect of democratic polls.
Chaudhry Ismail Gujar, the winning candidate, expressed satisfaction over the tribunal’s ruling and said he is committed to serving the people of his constituency.
Chaudhry Maqbool has not announced whether he plans to appeal the decision in a higher court.
The Election Tribunal plays a crucial role in resolving post-election disputes and maintaining public trust in the democratic system. Its rulings carry legal weight and can significantly alter the political landscape, as seen in this case.
With this decision, Chaudhry Ismail Gujar officially retains his seat in the AJK Legislative Assembly, representing LA-35 Jammu 2 under the PML-N banner.
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