SC dashes Musharraf's hopes of contesting upcoming polls

Islamabad: Former Pakistan military ruler Pervez Musharraf’s hope of contesting the upcoming polls was dashed on Thursday after the Supreme Court withdrew the conditional permission given earlier to the All Pakistan Muslim League (APML) chief.

The apex court had earlier granted conditional permission to Mr Musharraf, allowing him to file his nomination papers and contest the polls scheduled for July 25, provided the former military ruler appeared in court.

A four-member bench of the SC heard the case pertaining to Mr Musharraf’s return. The former dictator requested more time to return to the country, however, the court refused to entertain his requests after granting a day-long extension in the June 13 deadline. Mr Musharraf’s counsel, Qamar Afzal, appeared on his behalf. “I have spoken to Mr Musharraf, he has asked for more time. He plans to come to Pakistan but due to Eid holidays and illness, he can’t travel immediately,” Mr Afzal said.

“Alright, we’ll adjourn the court hearing till indefinite time period, will hold it on your wish,” responded the chief justice.

APML Secretary General Dr Mohammad Amjad Chaudhry confirmed that Mr Musharraf will not be appearing before the apex court. The apex court had set a deadline of 2 pm (June 14) for the former military ruler to appear before the three-member bench, hearing the disqualification petition.