Imran Khan, Pakistan’s ousted former prime minister, has been barred by the country’s five-member election commission from holding public office for five years, impacting his potential participation in the next election, expected in 2023.

Khan called his disqualification ‘politically motivated,’ and asked for his mass of supporters to protest in the streets. Police fired tear gas at hundreds in Islamabad on Friday, and Khan later asked them to return home.

Officials found Khan guilty of incorrectly declaring details surrounding the sale of gifts, including a Rolex, a ring and cufflinks, that he received from foreign dignitaries.  

Due to the violation, Khan “ceases to be a member of the National Assembly of Pakistan and his seat has become vacant accordingly”, the ruling stated.

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