Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif Wednesday said there were many characters behind 2014 sit-in by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) and that he will reveal their names at an ‘appropriate time’.
“Many characters played a part in the 2014 sit-in. Imran Khan and Tahirul Qadri were among those characters and when the time comes, I will reveal the names of others involved,” the former premier said while speaking to reporters inside an accountability court hearing corruption cases against him.
“PTI neither has character nor ideology. PTI is the party which disrespects others, uses foul language and follows the umpire,” Nawaz said, while responding to a question regarding PTI’s dismissal of Nawaz’s suggestion to form a national commission in light of the recent treason allegations against him. “PTI is the party which stages protests. Imran Khan does not have faith in our slogan of ‘respect the vote’,” Nawaz added.
Earlier, the cross-examination of joint investigation team (JIT) head Wajid Zia resumed during the Al-Azizia Steel Mills reference hearing. Nawaz’s counsel, Khawaja Haris, continued raising objections to Zia’s earlier statement.
The court adjourned the hearing till May 21. A questionnaire pertaining to the Avenfield reference was also given to the Sharif family.
The questionnaire contains allegations, statements and evidences found during the investigation and trial process. It also allows the defendants to put forth their stance after the conclusion of the Avenfield reference proceedings. The Sharif family will submit their response by Friday.
Published in Daily Times, May 17th 2018.
