Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, chairman of the Awami Muslim League (AML) and former minister of interior asserted on Sunday that he was disqualified from running for office because he was certain to win the next elections.
Nomination papers for Rashid from NA-56 Rawalpindi-V and NA-57 Rawalpindi-VI were rejected by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) the day before.
After his nomination papers were rejected, Rashid made a video statement in which he stated his inability to receive a copy of the ECP’s verdict. “A copy should be given to me so I can move the Supreme Court and get my due right.”
“I will not let go of my right [to contest election] and I will fight till my last breath for my legal and constitutional right,” the head of AML stated.
It was said yesterday that I was disqualified since I lived in a rest home twelve years ago and did not pay Rs942. I cannot express how strongly I disapprove of this frivolous and unfounded claim. Even after fifty years, I am ready to step down from politics if anyone can establish that I resided at such a rest home.
You can’t help but win with the help of PTI supporters and voters. Rashid, alluding to the seats for which he had filed his candidacy papers, said, “There is no escape for PDM. Success will be achieved through the historical symbolism of the ink pot with a pen.”
“Those who have conspired and caused economic, political, and social havoc on the country may go back to London, but my loyalty is with Pakistan,” the ex-minister continued.For our country, we will give our lives if necessary.
Rashid had to deal with another allegation involving the non-disclosure of a certain plot of land the day before when he was abruptly summoned to the office of the commissioner.
Rashid insisted that the land is entirely registered in his name and that the supreme court had previously given him a favourable ruling. Furthermore, the ex-minister denied the charges of tax evasion, saying that he has always paid his fair share.
Rashid, drawing on his rich ministry background, questioned the point of committing corruption over a sum as insignificant as 94,000 rupees.
