PTI Challenges Government Advertisements in Lahore High Court
Key Points:
- Petition Against Media Advertisements: PTI Chief Organiser Aliya Hamza Malik has moved the Lahore High Court (LHC), challenging government-funded advertisements featuring Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
- Allegations of Misuse of Public Funds: The petition argues that the PM and CM are using public funds for personal promotion, violating a Supreme Court ruling. It calls for a clear policy on government advertisements.
- Legal Precedent and Ongoing Cases: The LHC has already issued notices to the government on similar petitions regarding a 60-page advertisement supplement featuring CM Maryam. Other petitions have been filed by Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Ahmad Khan Bhachar and activist Ashba Kamran.
- Demands in the Petition: The petition seeks a court directive for compliance with Supreme Court rulings, formulation of an official policy on government advertisements, and the recovery of funds allegedly misused for personal publicity.
The case raises concerns over the use of taxpayer money for political branding. With multiple petitions already under review, the LHC’s decision could set an important precedent on government advertisement policies and political accountability in Pakistan.
