Islamabad (Web Desk): The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has called Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and NA-18 candidate Shehrnaz Umar Ayub to appear before it on Friday, November 21, 2025, after both were accused of breaching the Elections Act 2017 and violating the electoral code of conduct.
The ECP spokesperson said on Thursday that the notice was issued after the Commission reviewed Afridi’s address at a public meeting in Havelian, where he was heard issuing threats to the district administration, police, and polling staff while urging the crowd to react.
The Commission also pointed out that a proclaimed offender was present on stage with him; the individual’s spouse is contesting the upcoming polls.
The ECP warned that any officeholder or prominent figure trying to meddle with the smooth conduct of the NA-18 Haripur by-election will be dealt with strictly under the law. It stated that Afridi’s conduct disturbed the election environment and put officials, polling teams, and voters at risk.
Following the episode, the Commission instructed the Provincial Election Commissioner of KP to hold a meeting with the Chief Secretary and the Inspector General, ensure the enforcement of security steps, and provide a follow-up report.
A separate letter has been forwarded to the Federal Ministry of Interior, asking for comprehensive security arrangements in NA-18 Haripur with federal agency assistance to protect election personnel, voters, and the movement of polling materials.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Election Commissioner of Punjab has been asked to proceed firmly against any government employee found violating the code of conduct or attempting to sway the by-election.