Shehryar Afridi, a prominent leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has approached the Peshawar High Court (PHC) to challenge the allotment of the election symbol “bottle” by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).
The ECP assigned electoral symbols to PTI leaders, now contesting as independent candidates, for the 2024 general elections scheduled for February 8. ECP assigned the symbol of a bottle to Afridi, which has prompted him to file a petition with the provincial court. Former federal minister Afridi contends that the allocation of symbols often prioritizes ex-members, highlighting a concern within his application. He contends that candidates’ opinions should be considered before finalising the assignment of election symbols.
Afridi claims that despite repeated attempts to seek clarification from the Returning Officer (RO), he has received no response. This perceived lack of communication has further fueled his legal challenge against the ECP’s decision.—APP
