Government Seeks Ban on PTI and Article 6 Proceedings Against Leaders

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In a significant move aimed at curbing the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the federal government has announced its decision to ban the party and initiate Article 6 proceedings against its founder, Imran Khan, former president Dr Arif Alvi, and former National Assembly deputy speaker Qasim Suri. This decision is an effort to obstruct the PTI from emerging as the predominant party in the National Assembly.

The government’s announcement comes after recent instances where the party received relief from the Supreme Court in the case of the reserved seat, as well as a resolution in favour of the party chief in the Iddat case. It remains to be seen how this planned ban will impact the Supreme Court’s decisions on reserved seats and the status of PTI-affiliated lawmakers.

During a press conference in Islamabad, Information Minister Atta Tarar justified the government’s actions by citing the foreign funding case, the May 9 riots, and the cypher controversy, as well as a resolution passed against Pakistan in the US. He maintained that there is substantial evidence to support the ban on PTI, asserting the government’s right under Article 17 of the Constitution to prohibit political parties and the intention to refer the matter to the Supreme Court.

Furthermore, the government intends to pursue high treason charges against Arif Alvi, Imran Khan, and Qasim Suri under Article 6 of the Constitution for dissolving the assemblies despite a motion of no-confidence. A review petition against the Supreme Court’s recent verdict on reserved seats is also on the government’s agenda.

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The PTI has vehemently opposed the government’s decision, arguing that the ban could destabilize the country’s foundations. Party leaders have condemned the government’s actions and suggested that the move is a sign of fear and desperation following recent significant legal victories. Additionally, the party’s stance is supported by PTI Senator Barrister Ali Zafar, who highlighted the government’s misinterpretation of Article 6 and emphasized the futility of banning political parties in the past.

Legal experts anticipate that the matter will be referred to the Supreme Court in accordance with the Constitution’s provisions, and the government’s declaration will only impact the membership of the political party if upheld by the highest court.