Pakistan govt in war of words with apex court over probe

Islamabad: The Nawaz Sharif-led Pakistan government is in a war of words with the Supreme Court over the Panamagate scandal.

The rift between the government and the judiciary emerged after Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) leader Nehal Hashmi’s controversial speech, saying PML-N workers would make an example of those who held Sharif’s family accountable in the case.

On Friday, Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar summoned the attorney-general in his chamber, after a government statement criticised the court for censuring the government for politicising the probe.

The government reacted, saying, “Such uncalled for remarks are against the oath and code of conduct of the judges.”

A spokesperson said it was unfortunate that one of the judges in the three-member bench overseeing the implementation of the Panamagate case labeled the government as “Sicilian Mafia”.

“Such remarks have damaged Pakistan’s identity and sanctity in the world,” a government statement said, adding the government took action against Mr Hashmi before the court issued him a contempt notice.