Mark Seigel says Benazir threatened by Musharraf before her return to Pakistan

WASHINGTON/RAWALPINDI: Key witness, journalist and lobbyist Mark Seigel has said that Benazir Bhutto received a threatening call from former president General (retd) Pervez Musharraf three weeks prior to her arrival in Pakistan.

Seigel arrived on Thursday at the Pakistan Embassy in Washington to record his statement in the Benazir Bhutto murder case.

His statement was recorded at the embassy in presence of a judicial officer today via video link to an anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Rawalpindi.

While recording his statement, Seigel broke into tears as he spoke about Benazir.

He went on to say that the call to Benazir was received on September 25, 2007 as she was sitting in the office of US Senator Tom Lantos.

Seigel added that as the phone rang she showed him her phone screen which said ‘Musharraf’.

He further said that after receiving the call she seemed very disturbed.

He went on to say that Musharraf in his phone call said to Benazir that her life is in danger and that her involvement in any political activities in Pakistan will be her own responsibility.

According to Seigel, Musharraf also said to Benazir in his phone call, “Your security is dependent on the relationship between us.”

Seigel said that Benazir emailed him to say that if she was killed then Pervez Musharraf would be held responsible.


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Earlier today, an ATC in Rawalpindi recorded the statement of complainant Inspector Kashif Riaz in the murder case, however, the cross examination over the statement would be continued on next date of hearing.

Recording his statement, Riaz said that Benazir had raised her head from the sunroof of the vehicle even when she arrived at the rally, and not just before the attack.

The cross examination was underway but due to shortage of time the ATC adjourned hearing of the case till October 5.