Nawaz Sharif: Musharraf should be tried for treason

Pakistan’s new Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif called Monday for former military ruler Pervez Musharraf, who is currently under house arrest, to face trial for treason.

“Musharraf’s actions came under the purview of high treason,” he told parliament. “He should face trial and answer his guilt before the court,” Sharif added.

The prime minister spoke with the attorney general, due in the Supreme Court to outline the government’s position on Musharraf. A treason trial in Pakistan can be initiated only by the state.

In April, the interim government refused to try Musharraf for treason, saying it was beyond its mandate and up to the new government, elected in May.

“Musharraf will have to answer for his guilt before the court. We will follow the process of law and all political forces will be taken into confidence,” said Sharif.

“Musharraf violated the constitution twice. He overthrew an elected government in 1999 and put everything into jeopardy. He sacked judges and imprisoned them,” he added.

Sharif was the prime minister overthrown by Musharraf in 1999.