The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has disqualified Abdul Latif Chitrali, a PTI MNA from NA-1 Chitral. His seat has now been declared vacant. This action follows his 10-year prison sentence by an anti-terrorism court. The court found him guilty of involvement in the May 9 riots.
According to the ECP’s official notice, Chitrali stands disqualified under Article 63(1)(h) of the Constitution. His disqualification adds to a growing list of PTI leaders facing legal consequences. Just a day earlier, three others were also disqualified. These include Senator Ejaz Chaudhry, MNA Ahmad Chattha, and Punjab opposition leader Ahmad Bhachar.
The anti-terrorism court sentenced all four to ten years in prison. The ECP acted quickly to denotify their positions. However, six PTI leaders were acquitted, including Shah Mahmood Qureshi. Dr. Yasmin Rashid and nine others were handed 10-year terms.
The May 9 riots broke out after Imran Khan’s arrest. PTI supporters clashed with authorities and attacked military sites. The military labeled it a “Black Day” and pushed for military trials. Many PTI members were arrested and prosecuted.
Military courts resumed trials after Supreme Court approval. So far, dozens have been convicted. Some were granted pardons on appeal, though PTI remains unhappy with the outcomes. The fallout from May 9 continues to reshape the party’s political future.