The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has disqualified PTI leader Murad Saeed from his Senate seat. This decision follows an Anti-Terrorism Court verdict, and it affects the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa representation in the upper house. Murad Saeed’s de-notification leaves his seat officially vacant, prompting a new election to fill the position.
According to the ECP notification, Saeed was sentenced to ten years in prison, triggering disqualification under Article 63(1)(h) of the Constitution. The ruling bars him from holding any parliamentary office while serving his sentence. The decision also reinforces Pakistan’s legal framework that prohibits convicted individuals from legislative membership.
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Saeed was elected to the Senate from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in July 2025 but could not take the oath due to being absconding. His inability to attend Senate sessions left the seat functionally unrepresented for months. The ECP now officially recognizes the seat as vacant, allowing formal procedures to begin for replacement.
Earlier, in mid-February, Murad Saeed had submitted his resignation to the Senate chairman through a written letter. This step formalized his departure but did not resolve the legal complications arising from his conviction. Political analysts note the decision could influence PTI’s strategic planning in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and its upper house representation.
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The ECP’s notification is publicly available and provides the legal basis for the seat vacancy. Election authorities will soon announce timelines for the by-election. Observers emphasize the ruling highlights the judiciary’s role in maintaining accountability among elected officials.