SC hears petitions seeking treason trial against Musharraf

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court of Pakistan resumed hearing the petitions seeking to initiate treason trial against former president General (retd) Pervez Musharraf Tuesday, Geo News reported.

A three-judge bench of the SC headed by Justice Jawwad S Khawaja heard the petitions.

During today’s proceedings, Musharraf’s lawyer Ibrahim Satti argued that the constitution makers have granted the right to initiate high treason trial solely to the executive. He continued saying that no such step should be taken that can jeopardize national interest, security and peace.

Ibrahim Satti further said that the courts are powerful and the federation will act instantly if required. On this, Justice Jawwad S Khawaja remarked that the federation has not done anything so far.

Justice Khilji Arif remarked that the court decides in the light of constitution and not over hints. The federation has not signaled that initiating trial against Pervez Musharraf can pose any threat to the nation security.

Ibrahim Satti said that the constitution was framed in 1973 and no government has so far initiated treason trial against any one. The federation can decide to initiate proceedings if finds it appropriate and argued that the court does not have the authority to order a high treason trial.