Prime minister Yousuf Raza Gilani and opposition PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif today said former military ruler Pervez Musharraf should appear in Pakistan's Supreme Court to face the consequences of promulgating a graft amnesty that benefited thousands.
The issue of Musharraf appearing in the apex court in connection with the National Reconciliation Ordinance, the graft amnesty he issued in October 2007, came up during a telephone conversation between Gilani and Sharif this afternoon.
"In connection with the prime minister's statement regarding court appearance of former president Gen (retired) Pervez Musharraf, both the leaders called for appearance of the former president before the Supreme Court," said a statement issued by Gilani's office.
In a bid to deflect pressure from the Supreme Court to take action against president Asif Ali Zardari, one of the beneficiaries of the NRO, Gilani questioned the apex court's failure to summon the military ruler who was the architect of the graft amnesty.
"Why isn't the creator of the NRO being summoned?" Gilani said during an interaction with a group of journalists in Lahore on Sunday.
He said Musharraf should be made to appear before the courts and explain his position.
During their telephone conversation, Gilani and Sharif agreed to hold a meeting as soon as the PML-N returns to Pakistan from his current visit to London.
Sharif is in London for the treatment of his ailing wife.
Both leaders agreed to hold discussions to frame a strategy for strengthening democracy and democratic institutions.
Sharif made certain proposals to strengthen democracy in the country.
"During discussion, both the leaders had commonality of views to protect democracy at all cost, for which both the parties have given great sacrifices.
"Both leaders agreed that democracy would not be allowed to be derailed since it is the only way forward to ensure prosperity and welfare of common man," the statement said.
