PM, defence minister discuss Musharraf’s possible exit

Khawaja Asif also conveyed military’s point of view over ex-president’s illness.

ISLAMABAD:

As the speculations started arising after Musharraf’s illness on the way to court for hearing, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif rushed to discuss the scenario with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Thursday, reliable sources told The Express Tribune.

Implications of Saudi foreign minister’s visit to Pakistan with regards to the possible intervention in Musharraf’s case was also discussed during the meeting, sources said.

“The meeting took place without any prior schedule, as Khawaja Asif requested to meet the premier to discuss defence related matters,” a source close to the matter said.



However, an official statement issued by the Prime Minister’s House said: “Minister for Water and Power Khawaja Asif called on Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and apprised him of the state of electricity production in the country.” Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also holds the portfolio of the water and power ministry.

“The minister also briefed the prime minister about the situation of load shedding and the steps being taken to overcome power crisis,” the statement read.

Sources said that Asif also updated the prime minister regarding former president’s health condition. He told the premier that military board of specialists is of the view that Musharraf is to remain under treatment.

During the meeting the minister briefed the premier of his important meetings with military authorities over issues concerning General (retd) Musharraf that took place last week.

The source quoted the premier as saying “the government will respect every decision of the judiciary and there is nothing superior than the Constitution and the state law.”

At the end of the meeting, the visit of Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Saud alFaisal and its possible implications were also discussed in detail. Sources went on adding that premier has asked defence minister to keep him updated regarding every development in the Musharraf case.

According to media reports, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif ruled out chances that the government will allow Pervez Musharraf to go out of the country. The defence minister said that the government is well aware of the matters concerning Musharraf.

The former military ruler was rushed to hospital on Thursday after suffering a “heart problem” on his way to court in the latest dramatic twist in his treason trial.

Former president had been summoned to the special tribunal in Islamabad after failing to show up for two previous sessions due to security threats against him.

The former president, who was forced from office in 2008 but returned from exile last year, could face the death penalty or life imprisonment, if convicted.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 3^rd, 2014.