The Head of Pakistan Muslim League Mian Nawaz Sharif has said that there was no progress in talks between Pakistan Muslim League-N and Pakistan Peoples Party over reinstatement of deposed judges.
Talking to media after meeting with PPP Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari in London, Nawaz Sharif said that he differed with Zardari on some points. He said PCO judges had no legal status. Nawaz said PML-N showed flexibility as regards PCO judges so that the ruling alliance could remain intact. He said PCO judges could be retained on ad-hoc basis.
PML-N Head said both parties remain firm on their positions and if needed more talks could be held for which he decided to prolong his stay till tomorrow evening. He said agenda for today’s meeting was only the restoration of judiciary.
Regarding London talks, PML-N leader said he could speak on this issue only after May 12 and he was going to Pakistan tomorrow. He said PML-N would abide by its commitments and judges should be restored with honor and dignity. He said the constitution would be restored to October 12, 1999 position. He said President Musharraf used institutions to extend his government’s rule.
Responding to a question, Nawaz Sharif said there was neither any foreign pressure on him nor would he accept such pressure. He said restoration of judiciary is vital for Pakistan’s future and PML-N in consultation with PPP decided to include Aitzaz Ahsan, Fakhruddin Jee Ibrahim and Hafiz Pirzada in Judges Restoration Committee during Dubai talks. Nawaz said there was some difference of opinion as regards PCO judges between Aitzaz Ahsan and Hafiz Pirzada.