Musharraf’s treason trial not linked to army: Ahsan Iqbal

Published April 12, 2014
Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal. — File photo
Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal. — File photo

LAHORE: Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal said Saturday that former military ruler Gen (retd) Pervez Musharraf had remained a politician after relinquishing his position in the army and thus his treason trial had no relation to and nor was it an indictment against the country’s armed forces, DawnNews reported.

Speaking to media representatives in Lahore, Iqbal said those trying to link Musharraf’s trial with the army wanted to stir a political crisis in the country.

He added that such talk has to be set aside as it was aimed at calling into question the administration of justice upon which no compromise can be made.

On the issue of talks with the outlawed Tehreek-i-Taliban (TTP), the minister said the government had adopted the dialogue option with the militant organisation to establish peace in the country.

He further said that a military operation could also be undertaken to combat militancy but it would be difficult to roll back later.

Iqbal said that despite all the challenges the country was faced with, the government’s policies had devalued the dollar due to which the economy was stabilising.

Opinion

Editorial

Counterterrorism plan
Updated 23 Nov, 2024

Counterterrorism plan

Lacunae in our counterterrorism efforts need to be plugged quickly.
Bullish stock market
23 Nov, 2024

Bullish stock market

NORMALLY, stock markets rise gradually. In recent months, however, Pakistan’s stock market has soared to one ...
Political misstep
23 Nov, 2024

Political misstep

FORMER first lady Bushra Bibi’s video address to PTI followers has triggered a firestorm. Her assertion implying...
Kurram atrocity
Updated 22 Nov, 2024

Kurram atrocity

It would be a monumental mistake for the state to continue ignoring the violence in Kurram.
Persistent grip
22 Nov, 2024

Persistent grip

An audit of polio funds at federal and provincial levels is sorely needed, with obstacles hindering eradication efforts targeted.
Green transport
22 Nov, 2024

Green transport

THE government has taken a commendable step by announcing a New Energy Vehicle policy aiming to ensure that by 2030,...