Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani. — AP

ISLAMABAD Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani Monday announced the abolishment of the National Security Council (NSC), one of the controversial departments established by Musharraf`s military regime to formulate policies about security issues and the war on terror.

During an interview to a private television channel, he said the Pakistan People`s Party (PPP) has clearly stated in its manifesto that it is against the 17th constitutional amendment, the article 58(2) B and the National Security Council.

`A bill will soon be tabled before the National Assembly to formally wind up the National Security Council,` Prime Minister said. 

The Prime Minister said the NSC, which was put in place by Pervez Musharraf, was not answerable to anyone. Contrary to that, the Prime Minister, Ministers and State Ministers are answerable to the parliament, he added.

Gilani recalled that when the NSC was set up by former President Pervez Musharraf, it was opposed by both the PPP and the PML-N.
   
Responding to a question about a demand of the opposition parties to register an FIR against former President Musharraf for what they called his `misdeeds`, Prime Minister  Gilani said `The parliament has still not indemnified him and it is up to the Parliament to take whatever decision in this regard.`
   
`Parliament is supreme and sovereign and can debate all issues. It is the voice of the people and whatever they decide, we will bow to it,` Gilani added.