LHC orders Nawaz to appear in treason case

The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Monday summoned deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif on October 8 during the hearing of a treason case lodged against the former prime minister and his successor Shahid Khaqan Abbasi.

Prominent journalist Cyril Almeida was also summoned in the case pertaining to a story implicating Pakistan in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.

A petition under Article 6 of the Constitution was filed against the two former premiers. The petition alleged that Abbasi shared crucial details of the National Security Council (NSC) meeting with Nawaz following his statements on Mumbai attacks.

Former prime minister Abbasi appeared before the three-member bench, headed by Justice Mazahir Ali Naqvi, accompanied by his counsel. Abbasi’s counsel apologised for not attending the previous hearing and informed the court that Nawaz could not attend due to personal commitments following Kulsoom Nawaz’s demise.

Expressing displeasure over the journalist’s absence, the court stated that it is mandatory for the respondents in the case to appear before the court when summoned.

Ordering the placement of Almeida’s on the Exit Control List (ECL), the court directed the journalist’s counsel to submit an affidavit ensuring his client’s presence in the next hearing.

However, Almeida’s counsel refused to submit an affidavit and said he hoped the journalist will appear in the court for the next hearing.

The hearing was adjourned till October 8.

Source: Express Tribune