SC seeks gov’t reply about Musharraf’s treason proceedings

The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Monday sought reply from the government about petitions, seeking former President Pervez Musharraf’s trial for treason for subverting the constitution and declaring an emergency in 2007.

The apex court in its interim order asked the government whether or not it wants high treason proceedings against the Musharraf, who returned to Pakistan last month after over four-year self-exile.

The two-member bench said that the federation has not yet replied to the petitions despite issuance of notices last week.

He asked the Attorney General to submit its replies by April 17 when the court resumes hearing of the case.

Attorney General Irfan Qadir told the apex court that the government has not yet given him any instructions about the case. He also raised objections at the no instruction from the federation from

Musharraf also submitted his reply through his defence council, asking for a full court to hear the petitions.

The court last week rejected plea from the petitioners to arrest the former president. However, the court banned Musharraf from leaving abroad. The Interior Ministry later put his name on the Exit Control List.

The two-member bench said the federation also did not act against Musharraf in line with the adoption of a unanimous Senate resolution in January.

The Senate had recommended to the government to arrest Musharraf on his arrival and that high treason proceedings also be initiated against him.

The court was upset when no one from the government appeared as the hearing started and ordered the Secretary Ministry of Law and Justice to appear.

Musharraf is also facing other legal cases, including the 2006 killing of Baloch tribal leader Nawab Akbar Bugti and the 2007 assassination of former premier Benazir Bhutto.

Musharraf, who ruled Pakistan from 1999 to 2008, denied all charges and said he will defend himself in courts. He had resigned in August 2008 to avoid impeachment by the parliament and then went into exile.

He returned to Pakistan last month after over four-and-half year self exile in Britain and the UAE. He is now taking part in the parliamentary elections and also plans campaign for his All Pakistan Muslim League party.

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Posted by Tahir Khan on Apr 15 2013. Filed under Latest News, National, Pakistan. 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.