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June 20, 2012

Pakistan Faces Crisis as Court Ousts Prime Minister 
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Pakistan is facing a political crisis after its Supreme Court ruled the
country’s prime minister is ineligible to hold office. On Tuesday,
Pakistani Justices said Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani is
disqualified from the post after he was convicted of contempt for
refusing to reopen fraud investigations against President Asif Ali
Zardari.

Hamid Khan: "Mr. Yusaf Raza Gilani became disqualified as a member of
Parliament and consequently as a Prime Minister of the country. And that
he has ceased to be a Prime Minister with effect from 26th of April
2012. And furthermore, the Election Commission has been directed to
issue a notification with effect from 26th April, denotifying him as a
member of the National Assembly and consequently as Prime Minister."

Despite criticism from some who say only parliament can oust a prime
minister, the ruling Pakistan People’s Party appears likely to comply
with the decision and pick a new prime minister. The latest crisis comes
amid worsening relations between Pakistan and the United States and
protests within Pakistan over chronic electrical failures.

 

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