Former dictator Musharraf faces treason trial

PAKISTAN’S new government intends to put former military dictator Pervez Musharraf on trial on charges of high treason, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has said.

The charges being considered against Mr Musharraf relate to his declaration of a state of emergency in 2007 and the suspension of constitutional rights that followed.

In Pakistan, the maximum penalty for treason is death.

The government “firmly subscribes to the view that the holding in abeyance of the constitution on November 3, 2007, constituted an act of high treason”, Mr Sharif said in parliament.

He added: “Musharraf will have to answer for his guilt before the court.”

Mr Musharraf ousted Mr Sharif in a coup 14 years ago, cutting short the Prime Minister’s second term in office. Mr Sharif was then hounded into exile in Saudi Arabia by the dictator.

Mr Sharif ’s decision to move against Mr Musharraf suggests he is determined to take a more assertive stance than the last government.

Mr Sharif said: “Notwithstanding the fact the Prime Minister has borne the brunt of Musharraf ’s brazen coup, he wishes to assure both this august court and the people of Pakistan that he will act according to the highest standards of justice and follow the due process of law.”

Mr Musharraf’s spokesman called Mr Sharif’s announcement “reckless”, saying it was designed to distract attention from national issues.