Pak Supreme Court summons Musharraf

Islamabad, July 22 (ANI): The Pakistan Supreme Court has summoned former President General Pervez Musharraf to explain the legality of imposing emergency in the country on November 3, 2007.

The apex court has asked Musharraf to appear before it on July 29 to explain his position.

Hearing the case relating to the promulgation of emergency and the appointment of judges, a 14-member bench headed by Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammed Chaudhry asked Musharraf to explain the reasons behind him imposing an emergency in the country suddenly.

"Justice will not meet its demands, if the court gives verdict without giving explanation chance to Musharraf," said Chaudhry.

About 60 judges of the higher judiciary were sacked under emergency rule. Those replacing them may also be axed if the court declares the presidential action illegal.

The judges were asked to take fresh oath of office according to an interim constitutional order which was passed the same day (November 3, 2007)

The higher judiciary, which was then hearing a petition challenging Musharraf's election, was also sacked.

Any verdict in the case may put further pressure on the Gilani government to take legal action against Musharraf. (ANI)