Musharraf's request to be released rejected by Supreme Court

Islamabad, Sept 27: Pakistan's Supreme Court today rejected former military ruler Pervez Musharraf’'s request for release in the case related to the murder of Baloch nationalist leader Akbar Bugti.

A two-judge bench of the apex court, headed by Justice Nasirul Mulk, heard the bail request of the former President. The bench rejected Musharraf's verbal request for release in the case and said the complainant must be present in person in court for its judgement.

Musharraf’s lawyer, Ibrahim Satti, informed the court that the former President had voluntarily decided to return to Pakistan.

Satti said due to rejection of bail in the Bugti case, Musharraf was under arrest. Justice Mulk then remarked he could refer the case to the High Court for another hearing of the matter.

The apex court should announce its decision after undertaking a review of the law and the facts surrounding the case, Satti said. The apex court subsequently adjourned the matter for two weeks.

The court also issued notice to Jamil Bugti, the son of Akbar Bugti, on the request of Balochistan Advocate General Shakeel Baloch. Baloch nationalist leader Akbar Bugti was killed in August 2006 during a military crackdown ordered by Musharraf, who was president and army chief at the time.

Bugti had led an armed campaign to press for provincial autonomy and a greater share of profits from Balochistan’s natural resources. His death triggered angry protests across the country.

PTI