*LAHORE: The Supreme Court on Thursday withdrew its directive allowingformer president General (retd) Pervez Musharraf to file nomination papersfor the upcoming elections after he failed to appear for a court hearing.*
Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Saqib Nisar had directed the formermilitary ruler to return to Pakistan and appear before the court byafternoon today but he failed to turn up.
Musharraf’s counsel informed the court that his client will be unable toappear in court and requested more time. He pleaded that the formerpresident plans on returning but needs more time to appear due to thecurrent situation in the country and Eid-ul-Fitr holidays.
The court adjourned the case for an unspecified period of time, andrescinded its directive allowing Musharraf to file nomination papers, andasked his lawyer to let the court know when he wants the case to be heard.
The chief justice had earlier inquired about Musharraf’s intention toappear before the court. He instructed the deputy attorney general toprovide an update on Musharraf’s appearance.
“Find out if Musharraf will appear before court or not,” the chief justiceordered. The hearing was scheduled for 2:00PM today but we can wait ifMusharraf will appear.” He added that the court staff had to leave for Eidholidays.