The Accountability Court reserved its verdict on Thursday regarding former Punjab Chief Minister Chaudhry Parvez Elahi’s plea for a permanent exemption from attending proceedings in the corruption and kickbacks case.
Presiding over the hearing, Judge Zubair Shahzad Kiani reviewed the reference against Elahi and other individuals. However, the former Chief Minister was absent, leading the court to approve his request for a one-day exemption from attendance.
Elahi’s legal representatives informed the court that he was unwell and had been advised to remain on strict bed rest. On the other hand, NAB Prosecutor Waris Ali Janjua opposed the exemption, asserting that Elahi’s presence was necessary before a pleader could be designated to represent him.
Similarly, Muhammad Khan Bhatti, former Principal Secretary of the Punjab Assembly, also submitted a request for a one-day exemption.
During the proceedings, NAB witness and Deputy Secretary of Local Government, Amjad Ali, provided his testimony. He stated that he had submitted records of development projects and confirmed that approvals for schemes in Gujrat were granted by the Punjab Assembly and provincial cabinet. The court adjourned the case until February 27.
