The Election Commission of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has issued an arrest warrant for Ali Amin Gandapur, the PTI's nominee for the chief minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, citing contempt of court in an ongoing case.
The warrant has been issued in a case of contempt of the election commission. Gandapur, who is a former PTI federal minister, has reportedly failed to appear in court proceedings related to the case, prompting the election commission's action.
The warrant comes as a response to Gandapur's absence and the non-appearance of his legal representative during the court hearings. The Election Commission of Azad Kashmir has directed the Dera Ismail Khan deputy commissioner to arrest Ali Amin and present him before the court by February 28.
The case against Gandapur dates back to the 2021 elections, where an application was filed against him. Despite repeated summons, Gandapur has allegedly evaded the court proceedings, leading to the issuance of the arrest warrant.
According to police sources, Lahore and Islamabad police teams are expected to reach DI Khan to execute the arrest warrant. Additionally, there are indications that other local leaders, including Gandapur, may also face arrest in connection with the case.
However, the situation has taken a turn, with the Peshawar High Court's Dera Ismail Khan bench granting bail to Ali Amin Gandapur until February 19. The bail was reportedly granted to allow Gandapur to attend his father's funeral. Following the bail, independent candidates have reportedly met with Gandapur.
Amidst these developments, there are reports suggesting that Ali Amin Gandapur might be attempting to leave DI Khan, according to close sources.
The issuance of the arrest warrant against Gandapur underscores the Election Commission's commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability in electoral matters. The case is being closely monitored as it unfolds, with implications for Gandapur and other individuals involved in the proceedings.
