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Today's Paper | December 23, 2024

Updated 18 Apr, 2017 11:37pm

Political leaders weigh in on long-awaited Panamagate verdict

The much awaited verdict on Panamagate will be issued on April 20, the Supreme Court of Pakistan confirmed in the supplementary cause list it released on Tuesday.

The case pertains to investments allegedly made by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and members of his family in Mossack Fonseca, an offshore investment company.

Here's what the political leaders had to say regarding the latest announcement.

Aitzaz Ahsan Pakistan - PPP

The Qatari letter holds no standing in the case as the writer of the letter never presented himself in the court. Had he apprised the court of details himself, in person, and explained the unanswered questions in a hearing, the letter might have carried some weight.

However, this does not mean allegations against Nawaz Sharif are false. He never presented any defence. He only presented a letter, which carries no evidentiary value, no significance. But it is a law that you must present documents to justify and explain your position if you own more than what you earn.

Khawaja Saad Rafique - PML-N

Panama Papers case was a political matter against PML-N leadership. PTI has failed to provide any evidence on Panama Papers as it was pleading the case just based on allegations.

PTI's leadership has been exposed due to their negative politics of demonstrations and sit-ins in the country.

Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad - Awami Muslim League

If the Qatari letter is accepted as part of evidence for the defence in the Panamagate case, the entire justice system of Pakistan will be dishevelled.

We will accept whatever verdict the great judges put forth. Further course of action will be discussed with the PTI chief on Wednesday. Justice will win and corruption will lose.

Asad Qaiser - Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf

This is a significant case for the Pakistani people as its verdict will set a precedent for all those holding important positions, be it in the government or otherwise.

Accountability will begin from the top if Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is indicted. Corruption is the biggest issue facing the country, unless corruption is eliminated from the top, it cannot be rooted out from the lower level. The law treats everyone equally, and PTI believes justice will be delivered.

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