MUZAFFARGARH: Former MNA and Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) aspirant for upcoming elections Jamshed Dasti once again grabbed headlines on Tuesday, this time by securing protective bail from the Lahore High Court, Multan Bench.

He posted a video message online, saying he had got protective bail, and very soon, he would be among his voters.

Mr Dasti, currently facing a case with the Muzaffargarh Saddar police, has eluded multiple attempts of arrest.

In the viral video statement, he expressed gratitude for the court’s decision, thanking God for the pre-arrest bail.

Police raided his residence multiple times in recent months but could not find him.

Since May 9, Mr Dasti has been in hiding. He, however, remained in touch with people through social media.

In another video, Mr Dasti is seen engaged in spreading fertiliser in a field, seemingly attempting to impress voters. This display, however, raised eyebrows and drew criticism.

Earlier, Mr Dasti’s wife Nazia Dasti submitted his and her own nomination papers for NA-175 and NA-176 besides two provincial seats in Muzaffargarh district. He is likely to secure PTI ticket.

Mr Dasti, the founder of Pakistan Awami Raj, merged his party with the PTI last year.

Published in Dawn, December 27th, 2023