ISLAMABAD: The counsel of former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has approached Punjab Home Secretary Syed Ali Murtaza Shah asking him to comply with a court order to shift his client to a hospital for medical tests.
A medical board, comprising doctors from the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), on Monday suggested shifting Abbasi, who is currently incarcerated in the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) scandal, from Adalia jail to a hospital after his health deteriorated.
The medical board has recommended a hernia surgery for the 60-year-old Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader. Medical reports also suggest that Abbasi has stones in his bladder and kidney.
In a letter to Shah dated Oct 28, the defense counsel said that he had informed the accountability court in Islamabad that jail authorities were not having Abbasi’s medical tests conducted.
To which, the court had directed the jail authorities to comply with instructions of the medical board that examined Abbasi, the letter disclosed.
However, Adiala Jail superintendent told the court that the home department is the relevant forum to approach for permission to shift an under-trial prisoner to a hospital.
Abbasi’s counsel requested the home secretary to comply with the accountability court’s directives and immediately order his client’s transfer to a hospital to prevent further deterioration of his health.
During Abbasi’s appearance before the accountability court on October 28, the political leader’s counsel submitted a plea praying upon the court to broadcast the LNG scandal trial on television.
Former Finance Minister Miftah Ismail and Imran-ul-Haq were presented before the court. Judge Muhammad Bashir heard the case.
“Imran Khan claims he is behind the accountability drive in the country while the NAB chairman also claims he is behind the accountability drive in the country. People should know what is happening and they should be able to watch everything on TV,” said Abbasi.
The former premier also moved a petition in the accountability court seeking permission to be treated at Al-Shifa Hospital at his expense.
“I want to undergo surgery at Al-Shifa Hospital at my expense. The Punjab government is not ready to take any responsibility,” he added.
The court, meanwhile, extended Abbasi’s judicial remand till Nov 19 and adjourned the hearing.
