Islamabad: Holding that it violated constitutional provisions, Pakistan's Supreme Court today struck down a rule introduced by President Pervez Musharraf which said that only graduates can contest the elections. In a unanimous judgement, a seven-member bench headed by Chief Justice Abdul Hameed Dogar abolished the rule that was introduced by Musharraf through the Conduct of General Election Order in 2002 and subsequently included in electoral laws through a constitutional amendment.

Today's ruling also overturned a previous judgement by the apex court that had validated Musharraf s action. The bench, which issued its ruling in response to a petition filed by two private individuals, said the rule was discriminatory as it went against constitutional provisions that prohibit discrimination and guarantee the right to contest elections.

The petition opposing the rule was supported by the federal government's lawyer and Attorney General Malik Qyyum, who said it was a "bad law" as it barred almost 97 per cent of Pakistan's population from contesting polls. The apex court's ruling came into effect immediately and will be applicable to by-elections to be held to the national and four provincial assemblies in June.

Among the politicians who are expected to benefit from the judgement include Pakistan People's Party co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari as some doubts have been expressed on whether he holds a graduate degree. Zardari plans to contest the upcoming by-polls and has hinted that he might become prime minister if the need arises.

Source : PTI