Both sons of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif have sought the accountability court’s help in suspending their arrest warrants in three corruption references related to the Panama Papers. Hussain Nawaz and Hassan Nawaz, represented by their lawyer Qazi Misbahul Hassan, filed an application in the Islamabad accountability court to suspend their perpetual arrest warrants issued in the Avenfield Apartments, Al-Azizia, and Flagship Investment references.
Accountability Judge Nasir Javed Rana heard the applications of Hussain and Hassan Nawaz. The lawyer informed the judge that they reside in Saudi Arabia and the UK, respectively, and were named as accused parties in the references along with Nawaz Sharif, Maryam Nawaz, and retired Captain Safdar.
The lawyer explained that the trial began when the brothers were not in Pakistan, and they were unaware of the legal process. The lawyer also mentioned that the state did not follow the proper legal procedures, including issuing notices, arrest warrants, and proclamations.
Hussain and Hassan Nawaz have decided to surrender before the court to face the trial proceedings. They are scheduled to arrive in Islamabad on March 12 and have requested the court to suspend their arrest warrants to facilitate their surrender.
Nawaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz were previously convicted in the Avenfield reference before the general election. Nawaz Sharif was also convicted in the Al-Azizia reference but acquitted in the Flagship Investment reference. The IHC later set aside the conviction of Maryam Nawaz and retired Captain Safdar.
Nawaz Sharif returned to Pakistan last year, leading to the IHC setting aside his convictions in both cases.