ISLAMABAD: Former president Pervez Musharraf has said he will end his self-exile if he is provided security by the armed forces.

The former military ruler’s counsel, Akhtar Shah, submitted an application in an anti-terrorism court (ATC) in which he said Mr Musharraf will face the stalled judges detention trial if he is 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 judges detention case.

The court had then ordered the IGP 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. Mr Shah told the court that his client did not trust the interior ministry, which had filed a complaint under Article 6 of the Constitution for high treason. Mr Musharraf has sought exemption from personal appearance till arrangements are made.

In the application, Mr 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 are more serious now.

He has said Mr Musharraf is under constant watch of doctors, is being treated and has been advised not to travel.

The prosecutor, Amir Nadeem Tabish, said the interior ministry had time and again submitted that Mr Musharraf would be provided security if he was ready to appear before the court. However, he said, Mr Musharraf submits a new application at every hearing and has not appeared before the court for one reason or the other.

Mr Tabish said being a fugitive of law, Mr Musharraf could not seek relief nor would any lawyer represent him unless he surrenders before the court.

Published in Dawn, March 15th, 2017