ISLAMABAD: The five-member larger bench of the Supreme Court headed by Justice Asif Saeed Khosa and comprising Justice Ijaz Afzal Khan, Justice Gulzar Ahmad, Justice Azmat Saeed Shaikh, and Justice Ijaz-ul-Hassan has resumed hearing petitions seeking disqualification of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif over the involvement of his children in what has come to know better as Panamagate case.
The hearing of the Panamagate case which was adjourned due to the illness of one of the member of five-member bench Justice Azmat Saeed Shaikh. The hearing of the case was adjourned on February 1 due to heart problem faced by Justice Azmat Saeed Shaikh.
The counsel of prime minister’s son Hassan Nawaz Salman Akran Raja continues his arguments.
At the start of the hearing today after 15 days Justice Khosa thanked all those who prayed for the early recovery of Justice Azmat Saeed. Salman Akran Raja also welcomed Justice Azmat Saeed Shaikh for joining hearing after recovery from his ailment.
Continuing with his argument Salman Akram Raja told the court that he has submitted a fact sheet that contains brief replies to the allegations made leveled against his client.Saying that the court has placed a total of eight question before him Salman said that this is neithera trial nor his client is a witness. There is no record of 40-45 years and I would answer as per as much record that I have, he added. The family documents were destroyed due to martial law in 1999, he said.
Asking could the court could draw a judgment without any enquiry, and himself replying the question in negative Salman added that there is no charge against the prime minister and thus no action could also be taken against his children. But even if prime minister’s children are considered accused under NAB laws the burden of prooof does not lie with my clinet, he added.
Continuing Salman said that this is not a criminal case and even if my client is an accused there are no proofs against him.
At this point in time Justice Khosa asked Salman to respond to questions once he wraps up his arguments.
Continuing his argument when Salman said that the Al Thani family handed over the bearer certificates to Hussain Nawaz and the Minerva Company got them the same year Justice Azat Saeed asked him “where is its record and when will you present it Raja Saheb.” From day one you are jumpiing here and there, if their are documents present the, Justice Azmat addressing Salman said.
Imran Khan and Shaikh Rasheed were also present in the court.
