On July 28, 2025, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) disqualified two prominent lawmakers of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Malik Ahmed Khan Bachar and MNA Mohammad Ahmed Chattha, for their convictions in a vandalism case related to the May 9, 2023, riots. An anti-terrorism court sentenced both to 10 years in prison, leading to their disqualification under Article 63(1)(h) of Pakistan’s Constitution.
The ECP also disqualified Senator Ejaz Chaudhry, who received a similar 10-year sentence for his role in the same unrest. These rulings have significant implications for Pakistan’s political landscape.
The case originates from protests in Mianwali following the arrest of PTI founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan on May 9, 2023, in a corruption case. The protests escalated into riots, with reports of vandalism and violence. The anti-terrorism court found Bachar, Chattha, and Chaudhry guilty of participating in these acts.
The ECP’s notification stated that Bachar, an MPA from PP-87 Mianwali-III, and Chattha, an MNA from NA-66 Wazirabad, no longer meet the constitutional requirements to hold their seats. Similarly, Chaudhry’s conviction disqualified him from serving as a senator. The ECP has withdrawn the candidate’s status as an elected official, effective immediately.
Constitutional Basis for Disqualification
Article 63(1)(h) of Pakistan’s Constitution bars individuals convicted of crimes involving moral turpitude and sentenced to at least two years from holding public office. The 10-year sentences handed to Bachar, Chattha, and Chaudhry triggered this clause, prompting the ECP to act swiftly.
This legal framework ensures that elected officials maintain ethical standards, reinforcing public trust in governance. The disqualifications highlight the judiciary’s role in upholding accountability.
Read: ATC Sentences PTI’s Malik Ahmad Khan Bhachar to 10 Years in May 9 Riots Case
The May 9 riots were a flashpoint in Pakistan’s volatile political climate. Imran Khan’s arrest sparked widespread protests by PTI supporters, some of which turned violent. The convictions of high-profile PTI members, such as Chattha and Chaudhry, could further strain tensions between the party and the government.
These disqualifications may also impact PTI’s representation in the National Assembly, the Punjab Assembly, and the Senate. Political analysts suggest the rulings could influence upcoming by-elections and PTI’s strategy moving forward.
