I will resign but not write unconstitutional letter to Swiss authorities: PM Gilani

Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has said that he would quit his post, if it helps, but will not write letter to Swiss authorities against his boss, Asif Ali Zardari.

The defiant prime minister, in the same tone, clarified that his resignation will not resolve the issue of president’s immunity, adding that Parliament solely will decide the matter.

Speaking to a group of journalist, Gilani observed, “The president cannot revoke his own immunity unless Parliament amends the Constitution. My suggestion to the (apex) court is that the issue of immunity should be referred to Parliament like the issue of the appointment of judges was referred to Parliament [and resolved] in the form of 19^th Amendment”.

The premier, in his clear-cut stance, said neither he, nor his counsel Barrister Aitzaz Ahsan, will appear before the apex court on the given date. In his view, the verdict was not related to him at all.

He was of the opinion that he was not in party in the NRO implementation case, saying he is contesting the contempt of court case.

Earlier, the Supreme Court, in its direct orders, had asked the prime minister to write a letter to Swiss authorities to reopen the graft cases against his boss, Asif Ali Zardari. It also asked the premier to submit a detailed report regarding the implementation of the NRO (National Reconciliation Ordinance) judgment by March 21, 2012.

Gilani opted not to share his party’s possible strategy if he is convicted by the apex court in the contempt of court. He asserted, “I have restored the Constitution and strengthened the judiciary … if it punishes me, what can I do. It is a simple issue. I can do nothing before the judiciary”.

Gilani also indicated another issue saying there were backlashes of the premier being repeatedly called to the court, a negative impact on the economy, the stock exchange, and that the international community, which is monitoring this case, has also shown its reservations.

In his view, everyone should respect the law, adding he said judiciary is aware of the impact.

In the panel-interview, the prime minister informed that he will hold a press conference soon on the implementation of the Aghaz-e-Haqooq-e-Balochistan package.

While replying to a query, he said Parliament will approve new terms of engagement with the US and resumption of NATO supply-line in the coming joint session.

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Posted by Faisal Farooq on Mar 19 2012. Filed under Latest News, National, Pakistan, Politics. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.