.Islamabad: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Tuesday disqualified Member of the National Assembly Jamshed Dasti for submitting fake academic credentials. The decision came after an extensive investigation confirmed that the degrees submitted by Dasti, including his intermediate and bachelor’s degrees, were not genuine. The ECP announced its verdict following a reference sent by the Speaker of the National Assembly along with several public petitions challenging the authenticity of Dasti’s academic qualifications. This marks a significant development in Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in public office.
The verdict was delivered by a three-member bench of the ECP, which reviewed evidence and testimonies presented over several weeks. It was found that Dasti had claimed to possess an FA (intermediate) and BA (bachelor’s) degree, which he submitted as part of his nomination papers for the 2024 general elections. However, the degrees, reportedly issued by the Karachi Education Board and another academic institution, were declared fake during the verification process. The inquiry concluded that the certificates were forged and that Dasti had knowingly submitted them to meet the eligibility requirements for contesting elections.
Based on these findings, the ECP invoked provisions of the Constitution and the Elections Act 2017, particularly Articles 62(1)(d), 62(1)(f), and 63(1)(p), which pertain to the integrity and moral character required of parliamentarians. The ECP declared that Dasti’s actions amounted to corrupt practices under Sections 167 and 173 of the Elections Act and ruled that he was no longer qualified to be a member of the National Assembly. As a result, the NA-175 Muzaffargarh-I seat, from which he was elected, has been declared vacant.
In addition to disqualifying him, the commission directed that legal proceedings be initiated against Dasti under Section 190(2) of the Elections Act. These proceedings could result in criminal charges, including imprisonment or fines, depending on the outcome of the judicial process. The ECP’s order also stated that submitting a false declaration in nomination papers is a serious offense, deserving exemplary action to deter others from engaging in similar misconduct.
This is not the first time Jamshed Dasti has faced controversy over his academic credentials. In 2010, he resigned from the National Assembly following allegations that he held a fake degree. At the time, he was convicted by a local court, though the conviction was later overturned by the Lahore High Court, and he went on to win a by-election. Despite the past controversy, Dasti remained an active political figure and had joined the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) ahead of the 2024 general elections. He ran as an independent candidate with PTI’s support and won his seat with a considerable margin.
The latest ruling, however, appears to be more definitive and legally sound. The evidence against him has been thoroughly verified, and this time the disqualification has been issued directly by the Election Commission after formal procedures and due process. Legal experts say this ruling could carry long-term consequences for Dasti, including disqualification from contesting future elections if convicted under the penal sections of the Elections Act.
The disqualification has significant political implications, especially in southern Punjab, where Dasti commands a loyal support base. His removal from office may weaken PTI’s influence in the region, as he was one of their key allies in Muzaffargarh. While PTI has yet to issue an official statement, political observers believe the party will likely reassess its electoral strategy in the constituency. A by-election will have to be conducted within 90 days to fill the vacant seat, and major political parties are expected to field strong candidates to capitalize on the opportunity.
The verdict has sparked mixed reactions across the political spectrum and on social media. Many have welcomed the ECP’s decision as a step in the right direction, highlighting the importance of integrity in public service. Civil society organizations and electoral watchdogs praised the ruling, stating that it demonstrates the commission’s willingness to act against powerful individuals when the law is violated. Others, however, questioned whether such actions would be taken against all violators equally, urging the ECP to adopt a uniform approach to enforcement.
The ECP’s move comes amid a broader push for transparency and reform in Pakistan’s electoral system. Over the years, several legislators have been found guilty of submitting fake degrees, yet many of these cases have either dragged on in the courts or ended without meaningful consequences. The Dasti verdict, however, suggests that the ECP may now be adopting a firmer stance, potentially leading to increased scrutiny of candidates in future elections.
In the wake of the ruling, legal action is expected to follow quickly. The ECP’s referral to competent courts under the relevant sections of the law means that criminal proceedings could begin within weeks. If found guilty, Dasti may face up to three years in prison, along with fines and disqualification from holding public office for a defined period. His legal team has not yet responded, but insiders suggest that Dasti may challenge the decision in the Islamabad High Court.
Meanwhile, preparations for the upcoming by-election in NA-175 will begin soon. The ECP is constitutionally required to conduct a fresh election within 90 days of a seat becoming vacant. Political parties are already eyeing the seat, with PTI expected to field a replacement candidate to retain its presence in the constituency. Analysts believe the by-election could become a litmus test for public sentiment in the region, particularly concerning issues of accountability and moral leadership.
The disqualification of Jamshed Dasti also serves as a stark reminder to political aspirants that academic credentials are not just symbolic. They represent trust, honesty, and a commitment to truth—qualities the Constitution of Pakistan demands from its lawmakers. The ECP’s firm handling of this case may help set a precedent that discourages future candidates from misrepresenting their qualifications, contributing to a cleaner political environment in the long run.
As the case unfolds, all eyes will be on the legal and political developments that follow. Whether Dasti’s appeal, if filed, will succeed, and how voters respond in the subsequent by-election, will shape the narrative in the coming weeks. For now, the message is clear: deception, even in credentials, carries consequences.
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