The best way: No undue haste
The trial of Gen (Retd) Mushrraf is a unique event in Pakistan. Never before has any of the military rulers been taken to task for his misdeeds. What is required on the part of all those associated with the trial is to pursue it strictly in accordance with law so that justice is not only done but seen to have been done. In the eyes of law, Musharraf is still an accused person. The cases filed against him have yet to be decided. The former dictator’s lawyers would be keenly looking for any shred of evidence to cry blue murder and accuse the judges of being vindictive. The best way is to conduct the cases without undue haste. Instead of pressing the caretaker government to become a party in the treason case the court would do well to wait till the newly elected government assumes office next month.
There is a need on the part of the lawyers to act more soberly than some have done during Musharraf’s attendance at the courts both in Karachi and in Islamabad. One can understand that some of them have been maltreated under Musharraf. But this does not justify any unruly behavior on their part. The lawyers’ community is a part and parcel of the judicial system. They have therefore to show patience rather than lose self control. Their job is to argue the case, demolish the arguments given by the accused person’s counsel and wait for the decision which may take time.
The ongoing display of anger and threats of use of force outside the courts have to end. Musharraf is currently not fighting an election but defending himself against serious charges. Show of force outside the court can be interpreted as an attempt to influence the court. Allegations are already being made that some of the lawyers are acing at somebody’s bidding. Any ugly scene outside the court can lead to unpredictable results. It can even make Musharraf look like an aggrieved person rather than one charged with serious crimes. Saner voices from among the legal fraternity have also advised those wearing black coats to keep themselves under control.
It goes to Gen Kayani’s credit that he kept the army out of politics. What is needed now is a peaceful transfer of power to the next elected government after May 11 polls. What is going on in the courts is the trial of a man who is no more in uniform. Those who are trying to create a perception that this amounts to the humiliation of a general are misleading the people. They must not be provided any excuse that strengthens the allegation.
