SC verdict a 'good omen': Gilani, Zardari

Islamabad, Aug.1 (ANI): Welcoming the Supreme Court's verdict declaring former President General Pervez Musharraf's November 3, 2007 actions as 'unconstitutional' and 'extra-judicial', both Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani and President Asif Ali Zardari have termed the decision as a "good omen".

A statement issued by the Presidency after the apex court's verdict said: "The SC order is a 'triumph for democratic principles'."

However, Musharraf has refrained from commenting on the verdict.

Musharraf, who is currently in Italy, said he would comment on the verdict only after he himself read the apex court's judgement.

Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has also hailed the decision saying it is a step towards re-establishing the rule of law in the country.

Sharif said the verdict reflected the judiciary's independence, The Daily Times resports.

Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid President Shujaat Hussain said politicians should not exploit the apex court's decision for their benefit.

Former Law Minister Dr Khalid Ranjha, however, said that the verdict will only aggravate the issue and trigger controversy.

Ranjha also raised a question over the constitutional status of Zardari's oath following the verdict.

He said some judges had forced their colleagues out of office through the controversial verdict. (ANI)