Ready to face trial if army provides security: Musharraf

Former Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf has said he will end his self-exile if the armed forces provide him security.

The former military ruler's counsel, Akhtar Shah, submitted an application in an anti-terrorism court (ATC) in which he said, Musharraf will face the stalled trial related to the detention of judges when he was in power if he was given security by the Ministry of Defence.

The former President had earlier requested the ATC to direct the authorities concerned to provide foolproof security for his appearance in court in the case.

The court had then ordered the Inspector General of Police and interior secretary to make arrangements for the provision of security to the former general to ensure his presence in court.

He has now specifically asked for security from the Defence Ministry. Shah told the court that his client did not trust the Interior Ministry, which had filed a complaint of high treason against him. Musharraf has sought exemption from personal appearance till arrangements were made.

In the application, Shah has said the petitioner intends to appear before the court if provided adequate security. Given the situation in the country, the counsel said, security threats were more serious now.

--IANS

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