Musharraf vote ruling likely after Nov 12

Pakistan’s top court is unlikely to rule on the legality of Pervez Musharraf’s victory in last month’s presidential vote until November 12 — three days before his current term ends, a judge said.

The verdict on the October 6 vote had been expected by the end of this week, but legal arguments were taking longer than predicted and the court is not sitting next week, presiding judge Javed Iqbal said.

The timing for the case will now be tight, as Musharraf’s term as president ends on November 15.

There is speculation he could declare an emergency if the court nullifies the win or if the case overshoots that date.

Iqbal dismissed speculation about emergency rule after a lawyer presenting the petitions against Musharraf’s election win said ministers had warned of such a step.

“This Bench cannot be influenced by such threats, whether they are of martial law or emergency. Do not take statements of ministers seriously,” Iqbal told the court as he adjourned the hearing for the day.

“It was our effort to wind up the case by Thursday or Friday but it has lingered on due to lengthy arguments by the lawyers,” he added.

“If this case does not conclude by tomorrow it will not be heard next week due to engagements of one of the judges and will be then heard on 12 November,” he added.

Pakistan’s Attorney General and other Government lawyers have yet to conclude their arguments, while the lawyers for the petitioners are also expected to need more time.

Islamabad, Friday, AFP