Islamabad: The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Friday upheld decision of seven-member bench to indict Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani for not implementing court orders in NRO case, dismissing his intra-court appeal.
The Prime Minister would appear before the apex court where he would be indicted on Feb 13.
Gilani’s counsel Barrister Aitzaz Ahsan argued in the court that the prime minister did not commit contempt of court and contempt charges be discharged.
An-eight member bench of the apex court headed by Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry was hearing the case. The court had asked Gilani’s counsel Aitzaz Ahsan to complete his argument till Friday 10:30am.
The court said in its order that Prime Minister Gilani filed intra-court appeal against seven- member bench decision to indict him for not implementing its order in NRO case. The prime minister was also issued show-cause notice prior to indictment which he didn’t reply.
It said the NRO was declared null and void by the court and the parliament didn’t provide legal protection to it.
It noted a review petition was filed by the court against the order which was dismissed by the court.
Aitzaz Ahsan reiterated his argument that harsh words were used against the prime minister by the court in its six options, as the bench resumed hearing.
“We have said that the options were given for court itself,” the CJ remarked.
The CJ said that the PM did not respond to show-cause notice issued by the court. Aitzaz said the court in its harsh words said PM violated oath.
“Say whatever you want to say but keep timing in mind”. the CJ.
Aitzaz said PM was given wrong advises by two secretaries law and an attorney general for not writing letter to Swiss authorities. “My arguments will be same if trial begins”
“Court gave indictment order after haring prime minister,” CJ observed. Mr Aitzaz advise the PM.
Aitzaz said at least he should be given as much time as PCO judges were given. “It was a different case where several parties were involved,” Justice Jawwad S Khuwaha remarked.
Dear TNT Reader,
At The News Tribe, our mission is to bring you free, independent, and unbiased news and content that keeps you informed and empowered. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism, as we understand that we are a platform for truth.
Apart from independent global news coverage, we also commit our unique focus on the Muslim world. In an age marked by the troubling rise of Islamophobia and widespread misrepresentation of Muslims in Western media, we strive to provide accurate and fair coverage.
But to continue doing so, we need your support. Even a small donation of 1$ can make a big difference. Your contribution will help us maintain the quality of our news and counteract the negative narratives that are so prevalent.
Please consider donating today to ensure we can keep delivering the news that matters. Together, we can make a positive impact on the world, and work towards a more inclusive, informed global society.
Donate Monthly Subscription Annual Subscription