During the hearing of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s bail application in Al-Azizia case on medical grounds, Chief Justice of Islamabad High Court (IHC) Justice Athar Minallah summoned anchorpersons to rostrum for sharing news of alleged deal between PML-N and the government.
Justice Athar Minallah told anchorpersons that it is regrettful to hear some anchorpersons talking about the deal. This act is affecting public trust in the judiciary.
Media trial starts even before hearing of the case, whereas, judges’ trial is also being held on social media. Judiciary is a respectable institution, he added.
“Are other institutions and prime minister part of any deal”, the Chief Justice of Islamabad High Court asked.
He said the judiciary hears cases of political personalities as per law. We showed great patience when we heard rumours regarding deal. An elected prime minister is also being maligned. Where is Chairman of Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA).
Meanwhile, the court announced 30-minute break in the case hearing.
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) had accepted a request by PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif to hear application regarding bail of former premier Nawaz Sharif in the Al Azizia case today (Saturday).
Sharif was sentenced to seven years in prison in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption reference on 24 December 2018. Rs1.5 billion and US $25 million fine, a disqualification of 10 years from holding any public office was part of the sentences awarded to the former premier.
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On Friday, the Lahore High Court (LHC) bailed Sharif indefinitely on medical grounds, days after he was taken to Services Hospital from Kot Lakhpat Jail after deterioration of his health.
The ruling had come after doctors confirmed Sharif was suffering from an autoimmune blood disorder requiring immediate medical attention. It was not immediately clear where Sharif would receive treatment or how severe his condition is.
The 69-year-old was taken to hospital on Tuesday when his blood platelet count dropped to dangerous levels.
