PML-N MNA Pervaiz Malik submitted an application to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Saturday seeking the withdrawal of a notification barring elected representatives from campaigning in the NA-120 by-election.
Malik, who is managing Kulsoom Nawaz's campaign in NA-120 while she undergoes treatment for lymphoma in London, argued that the ECP's August 1 notification restricting MNAs and MPAs from entering NA-120 is against his fundamental rights and, therefore, should be withdrawn.
The notification violates Articles 15, 16, 17 and 19 of the Constitution, which guarantee every citizen the freedom of movement, assembly association and speech, his application said.
The notification, he argued, is based on the assumption "that public office holders of a political party may indulge in corrupt or illegal practices" and "unduly influence the electorate" using public funds and resources and that the assumption cannot be used to strip a political party or a leader of their right to campaign.
The application said that the commission can define guidelines which ensure transparent practices during election, but "cannot restrict political activity."
Malik is an MNA from NA-123 Lahore and is at the forefront of PML-N's campaign to win back the seat left vacant after disqualification of Nawaz Sharif via the July 28 Panamagate verdict.
A strong contest is expected in the constituency with the three biggest parties pushing for a win. Kulsoom is up against PTI's Yasmeen Rashid and PPP's Faisal Mir in the election, set to take place on September 17.
