Supreme Court of Pakistan Hears Appeal on Electoral Disqualification

Islamabad: During the hearing of an appeal on electoral disqualification in the Supreme Court, Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Faiz Isa posed a question regarding Form 47 and its legal implications. The three-member bench, headed by Chief Justice Faiz Isa, heard the appeal of PML-N leader Ahsan Iqbal challenging NA-81 electoral disqualification, where the petitioner’s counsel, Ahsan Bhoon, presented arguments.
During the proceedings, Bhoon explained that Form 47 signifies preliminary results, while Form 48 releases the final outcome according to the law, with Form 47 being designated for provisional results.
Justice Qazi Aqeel Abbas inquired about the consequences if the returning officer rejects a recount request, and which forum would handle challenges against the returning officer’s decision. Bhoon cited that on February 9, the returning officer issued Form 47 and on February 11, the constituency officer also issued Form 48, prompting his client to approach the Election Commission against the administrative officer’s decision. Subsequently, the court adjourned further proceedings for a later date.
The case highlights ongoing legal disputes over electoral processes and the judiciary’s role in ensuring procedural fairness and adherence to electoral laws.