SC summons PM against contempt of court charges

Islamabad, February 2: Supreme Court (SC) of Pakistan summons Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani to appear in the court on February 13 against the contempt of court charges resulting from his refusal to follow SC orders regarding the corruption cases against
Asif Ali Zardari, the President of Pakistan.

Justice Nasir-ul-Mulk said in the court that proceeding against the refusal by Gilani became due as he did not follow the instructions over writing to Swiss authorities to re-open the corruption cases against Zardari.

On the other hand, the government has been showing reluctance by arguing that president has constitutional immunity and no case can be opened against him while he is in office.

However, it was a shock for the government that has already become weak and has no way out from the current crisis.

PM appeared before court on January 19 and emphasised on the point that president has immunity. But now, court has summoned him again experts says that if he is convicted, he will be removed from office and can also be sent to jail.

While talking about the proceeding of the case, Nasir-ul-Mulk said, “We are satisfied that prima facie there is a case for further proceeding into the matter. Adjourned for February 13, for framing charges. Prime minister is required to remain present in
the court.”

However, Aitzaz Ahsan, the lawyer of Gilani said that appeal can be made against the decision of court.

Aitzaz said, “He (Gilani) has been asked to be present in person on February 13 when he will be indicted. There is a possibility for an appeal in this matter. It is up to the court whether to suspend this order or not. This will be decided after getting
a copy of the order.”

The government is facing worst crisis in its four-year ruling period as it has been surrounded by numerous issues and every issue holds paramount importance.

Now, SC has summoned PM over the issue that he did not follow the orders of highest court of Pakistan and will have to bear its consequences.

Short URL: https://www.newspakistan.pk/?p=11578

Posted by Muhammad Ahmad Nazir on Feb 2 2012. Filed under Latest News, Pakistan. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry