SC's verdict has reaffirmed our trust in Nawaz Sharif, says Ahsan Iqbal

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) on Friday rushed to the defend Nawaz Sharif after he was disqualified as Prime Minister by the Supreme Court in the Panama Papers case.

Addressing a press conference, Ahsan Iqbal said the verdict has strengthened their trust in the leadership of Nawaz Sharif. “The verdict has reaffirmed the party worker’s trust in the leadership of Nawaz Sharif,” he said.

He deplored the fact that no prime minister in history of Pakistan has been able to complete his mandated five-year term. “Seventy years have passed and there is manufacturing fault that no one can complete their term,” he stated.

He recalled starting his political career in 1988 when then Prime Minister Junejo was also dismissed from power, despite his political acumen and insight. “Even in Afghanistan they have maintained political terms that Karzai completed his six-year-term and now Ashraf Ghani will complete his term.”

He strongly criticised allegations made by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf that Nawaz Sharif was involved in massive corruption, owned and concealed expensive properties, and was the owner of the London apartments.

Instead, he said, the prime minister was being disqualified for his UAE iqama (work permit) and not declaring his receivable income worth 10,000 dirhams.

He said the the amount was rather insignificant for the prime minister who has declared wealth worth millions to the Election Commission and the receivables does not impact his wealth statement.

He said that amount was meagre and should instead have been been considered as an error of ommission, as it does have have not susbstantial and quantifiable effect.

“I call on every worker and supporter of the party that they should be proud of their leader,” he said who faced thorough accountability along with his children.

Expressing severe reservations over the apex court’s decision, he said that the precedent set was not for which they struggled for the division and maintenance of power. He said that verdict will be remembered in the annals of history, and taught as case study in law schools around the world.

“If this precedent is used then I doubt if anyone will be honest and trustworthy.” He said that the PML-N will complete its tenure and will use all its available political and legal options.