Islamabad: A Pakistani accountability court on Thursday rejected exemption from hearing pleas of ex-prime minister Nawaz Sharif and his daughter Maryam Nawaz in National Accountability Bureau’s (NAB) Avenfield reference.

During the hearing headed by Justice Mohammed Bashir, Nawaz Sharif, Maryam Nawaz and Mohammed Safdar appeared in the court.

The defence lawyer had submitted new medical certificate of Kulsoom Nawaz along with his clients’ pleas seeking exemption for seven days from March 26.

The appeal stated that Ali Aimal will appear in place of Nawaz while Jahangir Jadoon will be Maryam Nawaz’s representative.

The medical report revealed that cancer has been found on the left side of Kulsoom Nawaz’s neck after which the doctors have suggested to go for radiotherapy. The doctors have stated that they want to meet Nawaz Sharif to consult regarding his wife’s health. Subsequently, the court turned down the plea and ordered to attend the hearings.

Nawaz Sharif said that suggestions to put names on Exit Control List (ECL) were being given despite serving the country. “I don’t have any concern with any state institution,” he added. He said that the purpose of filing supplementary reference against him is still unrevealed.

The former PM asked why there was a need to change Balochistan assembly, adding that the nation has not accepted the verdict of his disqualification. Meanwhile, Maryam Nawaz said that they sought exemption from the court hearing to meet ailing Kulsoom Nawaz in London.