Chahat Fateh Ali Khan’s dream shattered as ECP rejects his nomination papers
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has rejected the nomination papers of Chahat Fateh Ali Khan, the singing sensation and comic icon, due to his dual Pakistani and British nationality. Khan, also known as Kashif Rana, expressed his disappointment over the decision but vowed not to give up on his dream of serving Pakistan in the National Assembly.
In a phone interview from Lahore, Khan stated, My dream to stand in the election and then win and serve Pakistan in the National Assembly is shattered but I will not give up. I call on the ECP to allow me to run in elections on an exceptional basis. He further added, This is not fair to overseas Pakistanis like myself.
The former founder and leader of Pakistan Development Party (PDP) and British Public Party (BPP) argued that every Pakistani has the right to hold dual citizenship according to the constitution and, therefore, they should also be allowed to contest in the polls. Khan emphasized the contributions of overseas Pakistanis to the economy by sending millions of rupees every month, making a case for their inclusivity in the electoral process.
Khan, who gained significant popularity through social media, had decided to submit his nomination papers after being invited by his fans for live performances in Lahore. He expressed that thousands of his fans had urged him to enter Pakistani politics, with many even voting for him in various online polls to become the next prime minister of Pakistan. These voices matter, he stated.
Planning to contest as an independent candidate for the National Assembly seat from Lahore’s NA-128 in the upcoming general elections on February 8, 2024, Khan shared his aspirations for change, drawing a parallel to his experience in British politics. I wanted to end the dominance of Labour and Conservative parties. Liberal Democrats are a third party but not that effective. I wanted to bring change in the UK political system and also I wanted to get more representation for Asians and other minorities.
While Khan’s nomination rejection signifies a setback, he has called upon his fellow Pakistanis to rally behind him and raise their voices. He remains determined to challenge the decision and continue his pursuit of representing overseas Pakistanis in the political arena.
The rejection of Chahat Fateh Ali Khan’s nomination papers by the ECP adds to the ongoing debate surrounding the inclusivity of dual citizens in Pakistan’s electoral process. As the issue gains traction, it remains to be seen whether changes will be made to accommodate overseas Pakistanis like Khan, who seek to actively contribute to the country’s political landscape.
