• Imran Khan's attempt to withdraw his appeal against disqualification in the Toshakhana reference has been rejected by the Islamabad High Court (IHC).

IHC Upholds Disqualification Ruling Against Imran Khan in Toshakhana Case

In a setback for former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) has dismissed his plea to withdraw his appeal against disqualification in the Toshakhana reference. The verdict, announced by IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq on Wednesday, upholds the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) decision to disqualify Khan over his failure to disclose details of gifts he received from the Toshakhana, a government department that stores gifts received by state officials.

The reference against Khan was filed by lawmakers from the ruling coalition last year, alleging that he had violated Article 62(1)(f) of the Constitution, which requires members of parliament to be "sagacious, righteous, and non-profligate, honest, and ameen." The ECP, after a thorough investigation, concluded that Khan had indeed made false statements about the Toshakhana gifts and ordered his disqualification.

Khan challenged the ECP's decision in the IHC, arguing that he had not violated any laws and that the gifts were not of significant value. However, the IHC has now rejected his plea, paving the way for his disqualification from parliament.

The Toshakhana reference has been a major political issue in Pakistan, with Khan's supporters accusing the ruling coalition of using it to oust him from power. However, the ECP's decision and the IHC's verdict have reinforced the importance of upholding constitutional principles and ensuring transparency in public life.

The IHC's decision is a significant blow to Khan's political ambitions and raises questions about his future in Pakistani politics. However, it also serves as a reminder that no one is above the law and that accountability is essential for a healthy democracy.