Pakistan PM Gilani faces contempt of court charge

Islamabad: Pakistan's Supreme Court yesterday decided to charge Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani with contempt for failing to reopen corruption cases against the president in accordance with the court's 2009 verdict.

The court ordered Gilani to appear before the court on February 13 for indictment proceedings. If convicted he could face six months in jail and disqualification from office.

However, the counsel of Gilani has said his client had right to appeal against the Supreme Court's decision to charge him with contempt of court.

Barrister Aitzaz Ahsan, speaking to media after the court announced its decision, said that the prime minister could only be dislodged from his post through constitutional means.

"Gilani can remain prime minister even if he is convicted," said the eminent lawyer, who is also a senior leader of the ruling Pakistan Peoples Party.

Earlier, the government had refused to prosecute President Asif Ali Zardari on the ground that he enjoys complete immunity as head of state.

"We are satisfied that prima facie there is case for further proceedings in the matter; [The case is] adjourned for February 13 for framing charges. The prime minister is required to remain present in the court," a seven-judge bench said in its order.