Verdict on plea seeking suspension of Nawaz’s sentence reserved

Nawaz's counsel and NAB prosecutor present arguments in court

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday reserved its verdict on former premier Nawaz Sharif's plea seeking suspension of his sentence in the Al Azizia reference on medical grounds.

Nawaz was convicted in the Al Azizia reference by an accountability court and has been serving a seven-year sentence at Kotlakhpat jail.

Nawaz's counsel, Khawaja Haris, and the counsel of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) presented their arguments before the court.

"In which hospital can the treatment take place? the court asked Nawaz's counsel, who responded that "before the treatment, Nawaz should be relieved from this [prison] mental burden".
"Nawaz is not in jail right now, but in the hospital," countered Justice Amir Farooq.



The defence counsel said the atmosphere of a sub-jail also causes anxiety and Nawaz should be relieved from this burden first.

NAB prosecutor Jehanzaib Bharwana also gave his arguments before the court. The medical board stated that all medical facilities can be provided in Jinnah Hospital and Services Hospital.

"Various hospitals including PIMS and PIC have the facilities for the treatment required," NAB prosecutor said also raised an objection on Nawaz's plea.



The NAB prosecutor maintained that Nawaz's case does not fall under hardship or within any other legal loophole.

The Supreme court has established a standard for NAB cases, and the high court can only grant bail in highly unusual circumstances.

Nawaz's condition deteriorated on January 3, however, there was no mention of this in the February 5 sentence suspension plea.

Medical boards boards were formed on the government's instruction the NAB prosecutor added.

The government, therefore, prioritises Nawaz's health, said Justice Kiyani during the hearing and added that Nawaz's name is in the Exit Control List and that's a matter for the federal government, said Justice Kiyani.