"Suspension of Perpetual Arrest Warrants for Hassan and Hussain Nawaz Signals Legal Shift"
Accountability Court of Islamabad Halts Perpetual Arrest Warrants for Hassan and Hussain Nawaz Following Their Surrender in NAB References
The Accountability Court of Islamabad temporarily suspended the warrants against Hassan and Hussain Nawaz until tomorrow, also granting bail upon their surrender in the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) references, with each required to furnish bail bonds of Rs50,000. Both individuals appeared before the court and appointed Rana Muhammad Irfan as their pleader, with their plea for legal representation being accepted.
During the hearing, it was confirmed that Hassan and Hussain Nawaz were the sole remaining accused in all three references, as the other defendants had been acquitted. Qazi Misbah clarified that they were co-accused in each case, with the Flagship reference resulting in their acquittal by the trial court itself.
The court issued a notice to the NAB regarding the bail applications of Hassan and Hussain Nawaz, adjourning the proceedings until the following day.
In an informal exchange with the media upon arriving at the court, Hussain Nawaz emphasized his Pakistani citizenship, asserting that he possessed no other passport. Reflecting on past events, he highlighted what he perceived as political vendetta dating back to October 12, 1999, citing instances of solitary confinement and exile without justification.
Addressing their non-affiliation with any political party, Hussain stressed the need to cease personal character attacks. He expressed sadness over their inability to attend their mother's funeral in Lahore and praised Nawaz Sharif's decision to entrust Maryam Nawaz with significant responsibilities, expressing confidence in her capabilities.
Avoiding direct comments on incarcerated former Prime Minister Imran Khan, Hussain advocated for the rule of law and fair trials for all individuals. He remarked on the need for national improvement, acknowledging the changes over seven years.
Earlier, the Nawaz brothers had left Lahore for Islamabad to surrender before the Accountability Court regarding the Flagship, Al-Azizia, and Avenfield references. Proclaimed offenders in the Panama Papers case for seven years, they would finally face legal proceedings.
During the court hearing, it was announced that senior counsel Qazi Misbah would join proceedings later. Rana Irfan Advocate, representing the accused, assured the court of their surrender by noon. Responding to the judge's query, he reiterated their commitment to appear by noon, leading to the adjournment of the hearing.
The impending surrender of Hassan and Hussain Nawaz after seven years of absconding in the NAB references underscores the significance of the Flagship, Al-Azizia, and Avenfield cases, which have profound implications for Pakistan's political and legal arenas. These references center on allegations of financial misconduct and corruption involving prominent figures.
