'PM to stand disqualified instantly': Experts

Islamabad, Apr 26 (ANI): Experts in Pakistan said Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani stands instantly disqualified both as a MNA and as Prime Minister, for "ridiculing the judiciary by flouting its judgments and making a mockery in public meetings", which falls under an independent Article 63(1)(g), and disqualifies any member of Parliament who commits this crime.

Gilani was accused of continuously ridiculing the superior judiciary in his public meetings and virtually abusing and insulting the Supreme Court (SC), and that too, during the hearing of the contempt case, The News stated.

Gilani's counsel Aitzaz Ahsan, argued by saying that Gilani could not be disqualified come what may and referred to Article 63(1)(h) under which any sentence less than two years couldn't disqualify any member of Parliament and that maximum punishment in contempt case is six months.

The SC on Thursday found Gilani guilty of contempt of court, but gave him only a symbolic sentence, which lasted for 30 seconds. He was convicted and sentenced under Article 63 (1) (g) of the constitution. A seven-judge bench of the court, headed by Justice Nasirul Mulk, announced the verdict.

Gilani was charged for refusing to obey an order to write to the authorities in Switzerland asking them to re-open corruption cases against President Asif Ali Zardari.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Firdous Ashiq Awan said a petition would be filed in the court for a review of the verdict. She said further course of action would be decided once the detailed verdict is received, The Dawn reported. (ANI)