Fawad Chaudhry Seeks Apology in ECP Contempt Case, Announces Nationwide Protest

Islamabad: Fawad Chaudhry, senior leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), appeared before the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) today for the hearing of a contempt case. During the hearing, he requested the commission to “settle the matter with an apology.” Chaudhry expressed that he had already submitted apologies in all three related cases.
The case was heard by a four-member bench of the ECP, headed by Member Sindh Nisar Durrani. Fawad Chaudhry’s appearance before the commission followed a series of remarks he made regarding the body, leading to the contempt charge.
When the bench, which included KP Member Justice Ikramullah, noted that the charge would be framed today, Chaudhry reiterated his request for an apology. He remarked, “Sir, please settle this with an apology.” In response, Justice Ikramullah pointed out that this hearing was to formalize the charges. Fawad then quipped, “You seem to only remember my remarks, not others.”
After the hearing, the ECP adjourned the case until December 10.
PTI Announces Nationwide Protest
Speaking to the media after the hearing, Fawad Chaudhry commented on the broader political situation in the country, particularly PTI’s upcoming protest on November 24. He emphasized that the protest was not limited to PTI or any individual but was a movement for all Pakistanis.
Chaudhry criticized the current political leadership, saying, “Pakistan does not have a government formed by the people’s representatives. A Prime Minister with only 18 seats has assumed office.” He also emphasized that PTI founder Imran Khan’s protest was based on three key demands: the restoration of the people’s mandate, the implementation of the 26th Constitutional Amendment, and the release of political prisoners.
Chaudhry also addressed the potential for dialogue, stating that negotiations could lead to an improvement in the political climate. He remarked that political solutions through dialogue should not be seen as compromises. “The release of political prisoners is a constitutional matter, and we will continue to fight for the restoration of the constitution and the rule of law,” he added.
Chaudhry indicated that a final decision regarding the protest would be made by Thursday, November 21, and suggested that if negotiations were successful, it could help ease the political tension in the country.