In view of a possible disqualification of the Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani in the contempt of court case, the PPP senior leadership has started the process of looking for a new PM. A seven-judge bench headed by Justice Nasirul Mulk on Tuesday reserved its judgment in the contempt case initiated against Gilani for failing to act on the apex court’s directives to reopen graft cases against President Asif Ali Zardari. The court had asked Gilani’s counsel, Aitzaz Ahsan, to ensure the PM’s presence in court when the verdict would be announced on Thursday (today). Gilani could face six months in prison and disqualification if he is convicted.
According to reliable sources, President Asif Ali Zardari, who is currently in Karachi, has decided to cut short his visit in view of the possible SC verdict against the PM. In this regard the senior party leaders have started consultations for new names to replace the PM. The sources said the president has also contacted coalition partners in this regard and Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Khursheed Shah, Defense Minister Ahmed Mukhtar and Federal Minister Samina Khalid Ghurki were strong contenders for the PM’s slot. However, names of Makhddom Shahabuddin, Hina Rabbani Khar and Firdous Aashiq Awan are also under consideration. The final decision lies with the president, which would be acceptable to all, the sources said.
