Islamabad | July 24, 2025 —In a significant development following the recent Senate elections, political tensions have intensified in Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) as their central leader, Murad Saeed, finds himself at the center of legal and constitutional complexities. Although Murad Saeed has been declared successful in the Senate elections, his continued absence from public life since the May 9 incident has created serious challenges for the party.
Murad Saeed Wins Seat but Faces Oath Deadline
Murad Saeed, a prominent figure within Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, was elected as a Senator despite his prolonged period in hiding. However, the legal framework governing parliamentary participation now threatens his newly won position. According to the amendments made to the Elections Act 2017, it is mandatory for any newly elected member of Parliament to take the oath within 60 days. This law applies to all elected representatives, including the National Assembly, Provincial Assemblies, the Senate, and local bodies.
Due to this legal requirement, Murad Saeed must obtain bail from the court and appear publicly to take his oath. If he fails to do so within the 60-day window, his Senate seat will automatically be considered vacant, leading to his disqualification. This situation places Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf in a difficult position, as the party risks losing a valuable Senate seat during a highly competitive political period.
PTI Leadership Struggles with Legal and Political Pressure
The PTI leadership is reportedly deeply concerned over the fate of Murad Saeed and the Senate seat he secured. As time ticks away, internal anxiety is growing among party officials who see this as another blow in their already embattled political struggle. Notably, Murad Saeed has not made any public appearances since the controversial May 9 events, and his continued secrecy has become a significant issue.
Importantly, the 60-day oath requirement is not merely a procedural formality it carries binding constitutional weight. In November 2021, during its tenure, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government itself pushed for this change. The party, under then-Prime Minister Imran Khan, amended the Elections Act 2017 through a joint session of Parliament, making it compulsory for newly elected members to take their oath within a fixed period. Ironically, this very legislation now poses a risk to one of PTI’s senior leaders.
Legal History of the Oath Requirement
The origins of this law date back to April 10, 2021, when President Dr. Arif Alvi signed an ordinance approved by the federal cabinet under the PTI government. This ordinance made it clear that failure to take an oath within the designated 60-day period would result in automatic disqualification. The provision was later included in the Elections (Second Amendment) Bill 2021, which was introduced in the National Assembly on June 10, 2021. Although it initially failed to gain Senate approval, it was ultimately passed in a joint session of Parliament on November 17, 2021, making it an active part of Pakistani election law.
Ironically, this very amendment, initially designed to ensure discipline and prompt participation among lawmakers, now threatens to unseat a major PTI figure. As a result, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leaders are left grappling with a law they once championed.
Clock is Ticking for Murad Saeed and PTI
The political future of Murad Saeed and the strength of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf in the Senate now hinge on a ticking clock. Every passing day reduces the window of opportunity for Saeed to secure bail and fulfill the constitutional oath requirement. If he fails to act within the legal timeframe, his Senate seat will be declared vacant, triggering a potential by-election and handing political advantage to rival parties.
This unfolding scenario has already triggered intense internal discussions within PTI’s top leadership. The party now faces a critical decision: whether to urge Murad Saeed to come forward and take the oath, or prepare for the legal and political consequences of losing the seat.
In conclusion, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf finds itself entangled in a legal trap of its own making. As Murad Saeed continues to remain hidden from public view, the PTI leadership must urgently address the situation. The next few weeks will be decisive not only for Murad Saeed but for the party’s ability to maintain its influence in the Senate of Pakistan.
