Rejection of nomination papers for senate election: AT reserves judgment on Azam Swati appeal

PESHAWAR, March 25 (Online): Appellate Tribunal (AT) Peshawar while hearing appeal plea against the rejection of PTI leader Azam Swati nomination papers for Senate election has reserved judgment. Justice Shakeel Ahmad heard the appeal in Peshawar AT Monday.
Justice Shakeel Ahmad questioned from the counsel of Azam Swat during the hearing that on what grounds the papers have been rejected.

The counsel for Azam Swati replied that complainants are three and two among them are such who are not candidate in the election. One objection is this Azam Swat has provided details of cases now. He had not provided details in general election. Azam Swat filed petitions in high court after general election . The detail of the cases was provided to him under high court order. When details came to us then we provided them in the documents related to Senate election.

Objection on technocrat seat is this Azam Swati is not eligible for it. He says he has no experience in this regard. My client has remained senator for 18 years. Two times on technocrat seat and one time on general seat. My client was eligible for technocrat seat from 2006 to 2012 but he is not eligible in 2024.

The counsel for the complainant said education for 16 years and experience for 20 years is must for technocrat seat.

Justice Shakeel Ahmad remarked he has remained member of Senate and its different committees. He participated in legislation making. You say what on it.

The counsel for the complainant replied whosoever is member of Senate he is member of committees. When some one misstates he is declared disqualified on it. Azam Swati was on bail in two cases. It has not been mentioned.

Justice Shakeel Ahmad remarked one misstates for what that he wants to get some benefit. Had he said no cases are against him in oath taking then this would have been a matter.

The counsel for the complainant said the cases he knew have not been mentioned. He has misstated.

The tribunal reserved the judgment on completion of arguments.