News Desk
Lahore, 15 July 2024:
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed shock over the government’s decision to ban the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), calling the move a violation of democratic norms and the Constitution. The HRCP, in a press release, highlighted that this decision flagrantly infringes upon party members’ right to association under Article 17 of the Constitution.
The HRCP emphasized that this action contradicts a unanimous ruling by the Supreme Court, which recognized PTI as a political party. The press release pointed out that the timing of the ban appears politically motivated, coming soon after the apex court’s decision that rendered PTI the single largest party in the National Assembly by making it eligible for reserved seats for women and minorities.
“This unconstitutional decision must be withdrawn immediately,” HRCP Chairperson Asad Iqbal Butt stated. The HRCP warned that enforcing such a ban would only lead to increased polarization and a high risk of political chaos and violence. “No government can afford to have a selective memory and conveniently forget the consequences of banning or demonizing political parties, lest it find itself on the receiving end of such measures,” the statement read.
The HRCP also urged the government to focus on providing relief to citizens who are struggling with a continuing cost-of-living crisis, rising violence, crime, and militancy. The press release underscored the importance of cooperation with both allies and rivals to address these pressing issues effectively.