Former Pakistan President and PPP leader Asif Ali Zardari has opposed the calls to hold early elections in the country to overcome political uncertainty that has marred the stock market and hindered economic revival.

PPP's Asif Ali Zardari opposes calls for early elections in Pakistan

Will Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) join the Cabinet of the new government led by Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif? &nbsp;

The question seems to be on the minds of several people in Pakistan and elsewhere. &nbsp;

Although the PM has been laying stress that the second largest party in the ruling coalition should join it, the co-chair of PPP, Asif Ali Zardari, has hinted that the party may not take up any ministries. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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The party seems to be more interested in constitutional offices,&nbsp;Dawn reported quoting a PPP leader.&nbsp;It also wants to give a chance to other members of the coalition, which comprises eight political parties. &nbsp;

"I don't think we are taking any ministries. We want to give a chance to our friends,” PPP co-chair told journalists on Saturday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The remark came outside the National Assembly when Raja Pervaiz Ashraf of PPP was elected as speaker unopposed. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Shehbaz Sharif government yet to finalise cabinet, MQM-P likely to get Sindh governorship

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The Cabinet is yet to be decided. The PPP has earlier told the PM that it wants to support the government from the outside, Dawn said citing sources. &nbsp;

“We know the fragile nature of our alliance and we want to see the present government succeeding. We don’t want to give an impression that we have come to power only to get some portfolios or to enjoy perks and privileges. We want business,” a PPP leader had earlier said. &nbsp;

The PM has also been tight-lipped over the inclusion of PPP in the Cabinet. A decision on the federal Cabinet may come soon, media reports said citing sources in PML(N). &nbsp;

The PPP seems to have been preparing for the next elections as it has started accepting applications for ticket allotment for general elections, both for national and provincial assembly seats. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Will Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) join the Cabinet of the new government led by Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif? The question seems to be on the minds of several people in Pakistan and elsewhere.

Will Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) join the Cabinet of the new government led by Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif? The question seems to be on the minds of several people in Pakistan and elsewhere. Although the PM has been laying stress that the second largest party in the ruling coalition should join it, the co-chair of PPP, Asif Ali Zardari, has hinted that the party may not take up any ministries. Also Read: Raja Parvaiz Ashraf elected new Pak National Assembly Speaker The party seems to be more interested in constitutional offices, Dawn reported quoting a PPP leader. It also wants to give a chance to other members of the coalition, which comprises eight political parties. "I don't think we are taking any ministries. We want to give a chance to our friends,” PPP co-chair told journalists on Saturday. The remark came outside the National Assembly when Raja Pervaiz Ashraf of PPP was elected as speaker unopposed. Watch: Shehbaz Sharif government yet to finalise cabinet, MQM-P likely to get Sindh governorship × The Cabinet is yet to be decided. The PPP has earlier told the PM that it wants to support the government from the outside, Dawn said citing sources. “We know the fragile nature of our alliance and we want to see the present government succeeding. We don’t want to give an impression that we have come to power only to get some portfolios or to enjoy perks and privileges. We want business,” a PPP leader had earlier said. The PM has also been tight-lipped over the inclusion of PPP in the Cabinet. A decision on the federal Cabinet may come soon, media reports said citing sources in PML(N). The PPP seems to have been preparing for the next elections as it has started accepting applications for ticket allotment for general elections, both for national and provincial assembly seats. (With inputs from agencies)

Will PPP join Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif's Cabinet? Leader Asif Ali Zardari gives a hint

Pakistan`s anti-corruption watchdog, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on Thursday issued an arrest warrant against the former president and Pakistan Peoples` Party (PPP) leader Asif Ali Zardari in a graft case worth 8 billion in Pakistan Rupees.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-nepal-re-elected-as-unhrc-members-china-also-elected-335110">Pakistan, Nepal re-elected as UNHRC members; China also elected</a>

According to The Express Tribune, a two-member bench of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) would hear Zardari`s interim-bail plea today over suspicious transactions in the fake accounts case.

This arrest warrant comes amid the Imran Khan government`s crackdown on opposition parties after an alliance was formed by all major opposition parties named Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) amid growing pubic agitation against the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government.

Earlier in September, a court in Islamabad indicted the former president and other accused in money laundering pertaining to the fake accounts case.

Zardari, who is named in multiple corruption cases filed by the NAB, was granted bail by the Islamabad High Court on medical grounds last year.

Last week, Zardari was shifted to a hospital, after he felt unwell on Sunday, according to a statement by the party.

"Doctors are conducting his medical check-up and necessary medical tests," PPP said in its statement that was tweeted.The Dawn newspaper reported that Zardari has been admitted to a hospital in Karachi.&nbsp;

Pakistan`s anti-corruption watchdog, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on Thursday issued an arrest warrant against the former president and Pakistan Peoples` Party (PPP) leader Asif Ali Zardari in a graft case worth 8 billion in Pakistan Rupees.

Pakistan`s anti-corruption watchdog, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on Thursday issued an arrest warrant against the former president and Pakistan Peoples` Party (PPP) leader Asif Ali Zardari in a graft case worth 8 billion in Pakistan Rupees. Also read | Pakistan, Nepal re-elected as UNHRC members; China also elected According to The Express Tribune, a two-member bench of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) would hear Zardari`s interim-bail plea today over suspicious transactions in the fake accounts case. This arrest warrant comes amid the Imran Khan government`s crackdown on opposition parties after an alliance was formed by all major opposition parties named Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) amid growing pubic agitation against the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government. Earlier in September, a court in Islamabad indicted the former president and other accused in money laundering pertaining to the fake accounts case. Zardari, who is named in multiple corruption cases filed by the NAB, was granted bail by the Islamabad High Court on medical grounds last year. Last week, Zardari was shifted to a hospital, after he felt unwell on Sunday, according to a statement by the party. "Doctors are conducting his medical check-up and necessary medical tests," PPP said in its statement that was tweeted.The Dawn newspaper reported that Zardari has been admitted to a hospital in Karachi.

Pakistan: Arrest warrant issued against former Pak President Asif Ali Zardari

An anti-corruption court in Pakistan on Monday indicted former president Asif Ali Zardari in the Park Lane and Thatta Water Supply cases.

Zardari, 63, the co-chairman of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), was present in the Islamabad-based court and pleaded not guilty.

During the hearing, the court indicted 19 others accused in the Park Lane case and 15 others in the Thatta water supply case.

The court last week had indicted Zardari, his sister Faryal Talpur in a mega money laundering case.

In the Park Lane case, Zardari and his son Bilawal Ali Zardari are accused of purchasing 2,460 kanals of prime property in Islamabad at extremely depreciated rates using frontmen.

In the Thatta water supply case, a private contractor was illegaly awarded project contracts. In the money laundering case, it is alleged fake accounts were used by the former president and other accused to park and launder ill-gotten wealth.

The court has rejected Zardari's plea seeking acquittal in all three cases.

The husband of the country's first woman prime minister Benazir Bhutto was arrested last year by the National Accountability Bureau and probed for months before being released in December on medical grounds.

Zardari has maintained the allegations against him are a vilification campaign by Prime Minister Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.

An anti-corruption court in Pakistan on Monday indicted former president Asif Ali Zardari in the Park Lane and Thatta Water Supply cases. Zardari, 63, the co-chairman of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), was present in the Islamabad-based court and pleaded not guilty.

An anti-corruption court in Pakistan on Monday indicted former president Asif Ali Zardari in the Park Lane and Thatta Water Supply cases. Zardari, 63, the co-chairman of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), was present in the Islamabad-based court and pleaded not guilty. During the hearing, the court indicted 19 others accused in the Park Lane case and 15 others in the Thatta water supply case. The court last week had indicted Zardari, his sister Faryal Talpur in a mega money laundering case. In the Park Lane case, Zardari and his son Bilawal Ali Zardari are accused of purchasing 2,460 kanals of prime property in Islamabad at extremely depreciated rates using frontmen. In the Thatta water supply case, a private contractor was illegaly awarded project contracts. In the money laundering case, it is alleged fake accounts were used by the former president and other accused to park and launder ill-gotten wealth. The court has rejected Zardari's plea seeking acquittal in all three cases. The husband of the country's first woman prime minister Benazir Bhutto was arrested last year by the National Accountability Bureau and probed for months before being released in December on medical grounds. Zardari has maintained the allegations against him are a vilification campaign by Prime Minister Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.

Former Pakistan president Asif Ali Zardari indicted in Park Lane and Thatta Water cases

An anti-corruption court in Pakistan indicted former President Asif Ali Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur in a money laundering case. Watch this video to know more.

Pakistan: Former President Asif Ali Zardari indicted in a money laundering case

Pakistan: Asif Ali Zardari, Faryal Talpur indicted for money laundering

An American blogger and former social media strategist of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has accused a former interior minister and former prime minister of rape and sexual assault -- through Facebook lives and a series of Twitter posts -- even as the former official has&nbsp;denied charges.

Cynthia D. Ritchie, who shifted to Pakistan from America in 2010, revealed the details and the threats&nbsp;through a Facebook live video.&nbsp;(The user has advised for parental&nbsp;guidance, and has mentioned trigger warning)

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Cynthia D. Ritchie first visited Pakistan in 2009. She claims to have been&nbsp;invited by then Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani and then Interior Minister Rehman Malik to help in building Pakistan’s image. She said she was a communications consultant to the PPP.&nbsp;

As things were going well, she shifted to Pakistan towards the end of 2010, and now resides in Islamabad.

However, things were not all rosy for her in this long journey, she claims. She has accused&nbsp;Rehman Malik of raping her in 2011, after lacing her drink with sedatives. She also accused former Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani and former health minister Makhdoom Shahabuddin of physically manhandling her inside the President’s House in Islamabad.

Pakistan was then under the government of&nbsp;Asif Ali Zardari.

However, former prime minister Gilani has denied the charges, and has called the allegations a form of&nbsp;"humiliation and disgrace". He has further accused Cynthia of maligning him&nbsp;because his two sons had filed a defamation case against her for her allegedly defamatory tweet against late Benazir Bhutto.&nbsp;

The other two ministers have not yet replied to the accusations.

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Occurred at IM's house in min enclave 2011 around the OBL incident. I thought it a meeting about my visa but I was given flowers/ a drugged drink. I kept quiet - who in PPP gov't would help me against PPP IM? 
 
Recently they attacked family; I've had it. Ready to face any accuser <a href="https://t.co/KkGSKTERQs">https://t.co/KkGSKTERQs</a>
— Cynthia D. Ritchie (@CynthiaDRitchie) <a href="https://twitter.com/CynthiaDRitchie/status/1268921048822661125?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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As she went live on Facebook on Friday, she backed her accusations by providing details and sequences of the events listed in her video. She also claimed to possess evidence in form on screenshots, text messages and call recordings. “I will be happy to go into more detail with an appropriate, neutral, and investigative journalist,” she said.

While she has not revealed the evidence and proof yet, she has assured that she will soon be revealing all of the mentioned evidence in a week or two. However, she did upload screenshots of her WhatsApp conversation with Nasir Rashid Baralvi, Secretary Information, PPP, UAE, after filing a report against him in the UAE.

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Thanks to those who helped in filing a report against this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PPP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PPP</a> worker in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAE</a>. I will fully cooperate with all authorities to ensure justice is done. <a href="https://t.co/U4FOhc8XBc">pic.twitter.com/U4FOhc8XBc</a>
— Cynthia D. Ritchie (@CynthiaDRitchie) <a href="https://twitter.com/CynthiaDRitchie/status/1269130781332590593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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She also claimed to have complained to the US Embassy in 2011. However, "due to 'fluid' situation and 'complex' relations between US and Pakistan, response was less than adequate."

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And, yes, I did tell someone at the UsEmb in 2011, but due to 'fluid' situation and 'complex' relations between US and Pakistan, response was less than adequate. 
 
I've been engaged to a wonderful man who I met in 🇵🇰. He encouraged me to speak out, so we can move on as a couple. <a href="https://t.co/PpfdF9Fuib">https://t.co/PpfdF9Fuib</a>
— Cynthia D. Ritchie (@CynthiaDRitchie) <a href="https://twitter.com/CynthiaDRitchie/status/1268923253025882113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Revelations pour in

This is not the first shocking news that Cynthia has revealed. While this is a personal tragedy for her, she has also revealed images of members and leaders of PPP in situations which are not considered to be idle in "Muslim community".

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Is this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PPP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PPP</a> MNA Ramesh Lal throwing money that belongs to the poor people of Sindh on Senior Minister PPP Nisar Khuhro? 
 
Politicians are elected and answerable to the public. Can someone be honest with his constituency if he throws poor people's money? Also, Article 62(1)(F). <a href="https://t.co/bTlly1eNqd">pic.twitter.com/bTlly1eNqd</a>
— Cynthia D. Ritchie (@CynthiaDRitchie) <a href="https://twitter.com/CynthiaDRitchie/status/1268508497756463104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The freelance filmmaker and social media strategist had also&nbsp;posted parts of the book “Indecent Correspondence: Secret sex life of Benazir Bhutto" on Twitter. She highlighted the parts of the book which reveal details of private lives of Benazir Bhutto, her son and current PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto and senior party leader Sherry Rehman.

She also accused the late Benazir Bhutto of letting her guards rape women and made some disturbing accusations of the late&nbsp;leader's sex life. She also revealed a receipt of an adult toys store and&nbsp;challenged senior PPP leader Sherry Rehman to prove her allegations to be false.

While she claims to "have a lot of&nbsp;dirt on a lot of people in this country”, she has also accused PPP of sending rape and death threats to her, her friends and family. In her live video, she also mentioned that few party workers contacted her sisters who 'naively' revealed her location as they were unaware of the situation.

(With inputs from agencies)

An American blogger and former social media strategist of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has accused a former interior minister and former prime minister of rape and sexual assault -- through Facebook lives and a series of Twitter posts -- even as the former official has denied charges.

An American blogger and former social media strategist of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has accused a former interior minister and former prime minister of rape and sexual assault -- through Facebook lives and a series of Twitter posts -- even as the former official has denied charges. Cynthia D. Ritchie, who shifted to Pakistan from America in 2010, revealed the details and the threats through a Facebook live video. (The user has advised for parental guidance, and has mentioned trigger warning) × Cynthia D. Ritchie first visited Pakistan in 2009. She claims to have been invited by then Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani and then Interior Minister Rehman Malik to help in building Pakistan’s image. She said she was a communications consultant to the PPP. As things were going well, she shifted to Pakistan towards the end of 2010, and now resides in Islamabad. However, things were not all rosy for her in this long journey, she claims. She has accused Rehman Malik of raping her in 2011, after lacing her drink with sedatives. She also accused former Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani and former health minister Makhdoom Shahabuddin of physically manhandling her inside the President’s House in Islamabad. Pakistan was then under the government of Asif Ali Zardari. However, former prime minister Gilani has denied the charges, and has called the allegations a form of "humiliation and disgrace". He has further accused Cynthia of maligning him because his two sons had filed a defamation case against her for her allegedly defamatory tweet against late Benazir Bhutto. The other two ministers have not yet replied to the accusations. Occurred at IM's house in min enclave 2011 around the OBL incident. I thought it a meeting about my visa but I was given flowers/ a drugged drink. I kept quiet - who in PPP gov't would help me against PPP IM? Recently they attacked family; I've had it. Ready to face any accuser https://t.co/KkGSKTERQs — Cynthia D. Ritchie (@CynthiaDRitchie) June 5, 2020 × As she went live on Facebook on Friday, she backed her accusations by providing details and sequences of the events listed in her video. She also claimed to possess evidence in form on screenshots, text messages and call recordings. “I will be happy to go into more detail with an appropriate, neutral, and investigative journalist,” she said. While she has not revealed the evidence and proof yet, she has assured that she will soon be revealing all of the mentioned evidence in a week or two. However, she did upload screenshots of her WhatsApp conversation with Nasir Rashid Baralvi, Secretary Information, PPP, UAE, after filing a report against him in the UAE. Thanks to those who helped in filing a report against this #PPP worker in #UAE. I will fully cooperate with all authorities to ensure justice is done. pic.twitter.com/U4FOhc8XBc — Cynthia D. Ritchie (@CynthiaDRitchie) June 6, 2020 × She also claimed to have complained to the US Embassy in 2011. However, "due to 'fluid' situation and 'complex' relations between US and Pakistan, response was less than adequate." And, yes, I did tell someone at the UsEmb in 2011, but due to 'fluid' situation and 'complex' relations between US and Pakistan, response was less than adequate. I've been engaged to a wonderful man who I met in 🇵🇰. He encouraged me to speak out, so we can move on as a couple. https://t.co/PpfdF9Fuib — Cynthia D. Ritchie (@CynthiaDRitchie) June 5, 2020 × Revelations pour in This is not the first shocking news that Cynthia has revealed. While this is a personal tragedy for her, she has also revealed images of members and leaders of PPP in situations which are not considered to be idle in "Muslim community". Is this #PPP MNA Ramesh Lal throwing money that belongs to the poor people of Sindh on Senior Minister PPP Nisar Khuhro? Politicians are elected and answerable to the public. Can someone be honest with his constituency if he throws poor people's money? Also, Article 62(1)(F). pic.twitter.com/bTlly1eNqd — Cynthia D. Ritchie (@CynthiaDRitchie) June 4, 2020 × The freelance filmmaker and social media strategist had also posted parts of the book “Indecent Correspondence: Secret sex life of Benazir Bhutto" on Twitter. She highlighted the parts of the book which reveal details of private lives of Benazir Bhutto, her son and current PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto and senior party leader Sherry Rehman. She also accused the late Benazir Bhutto of letting her guards rape women and made some disturbing accusations of the late leader's sex life. She also revealed a receipt of an adult toys store and challenged senior PPP leader Sherry Rehman to prove her allegations to be false. While she claims to "have a lot of dirt on a lot of people in this country”, she has also accused PPP of sending rape and death threats to her, her friends and family. In her live video, she also mentioned that few party workers contacted her sisters who 'naively' revealed her location as they were unaware of the situation. (With inputs from agencies)

American blogger accuses Pakistan's Zardari govt officials of rape, harassment; former minister denies charges

An arrest warrant was issued against former Pakistani prime minister Nawaz Sharif and former President Asif Ali Zardari was asked to appear on June 11 by an accountability court in Toshakhana (national depository) case, a report claimed.&nbsp;

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) prosecutor, during the hearing, asked the court to issue an arrest warrant against Sharif, Zardari, former PM Yousaf Raza Gillani, and Omni Group Director Abdul Ghani Majeed, Pakistan-based BOL News reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-anti-graft-body-issues-arrest-warrant-against-nawaz-sharif-in-land-related-corruption-case-294992">Pakistan anti-graft body issues arrest warrant against Nawaz Sharif in land related corruption case</a>

The NAB has accused Sharif and Zardari of using cars gifted to Pakistan by the UAE and Libya during the tenure of Gillani instead of returning them to Toshakhana. It claimed that the laws were relaxed to give cars to these leaders, saying that the duty was paid using fake accounts.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/is-nawaz-sharif-victim-of-a-political-witch-hunt-283820">Is Nawaz Sharif victim of a political witch-hunt?</a>

NAB prosecutor also said that Zardari paid 15 per cent of the cost of the cars by using bogus accounts.&nbsp;

Asad Abbasi, who was representing Zardari, in the proceedings, said that an exemption request would be registered in the court. He added that Zardari is critically ill and hospitalized, and therefore be permitted immunity from a court appearance.&nbsp;

The next hearing of the matter is scheduled for June 11.

Sharif is in London since November last year after his health deteriorated, following which he was granted bail in Al-Azizia Mills corruption case.&nbsp;

An arrest warrant was issued against former Pakistani prime minister Nawaz Sharif and former President Asif Ali Zardari was asked to appear on June 11 by an accountability court in Toshakhana (national depository) case, a report claimed.

An arrest warrant was issued against former Pakistani prime minister Nawaz Sharif and former President Asif Ali Zardari was asked to appear on June 11 by an accountability court in Toshakhana (national depository) case, a report claimed. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) prosecutor, during the hearing, asked the court to issue an arrest warrant against Sharif, Zardari, former PM Yousaf Raza Gillani, and Omni Group Director Abdul Ghani Majeed, Pakistan-based BOL News reported. Also read | Pakistan anti-graft body issues arrest warrant against Nawaz Sharif in land related corruption case The NAB has accused Sharif and Zardari of using cars gifted to Pakistan by the UAE and Libya during the tenure of Gillani instead of returning them to Toshakhana. It claimed that the laws were relaxed to give cars to these leaders, saying that the duty was paid using fake accounts. Also read | Is Nawaz Sharif victim of a political witch-hunt? NAB prosecutor also said that Zardari paid 15 per cent of the cost of the cars by using bogus accounts. Asad Abbasi, who was representing Zardari, in the proceedings, said that an exemption request would be registered in the court. He added that Zardari is critically ill and hospitalized, and therefore be permitted immunity from a court appearance. The next hearing of the matter is scheduled for June 11. Sharif is in London since November last year after his health deteriorated, following which he was granted bail in Al-Azizia Mills corruption case.

Arrest warrant issued against Nawaz Sharif in national depository case

Former Pakistan President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/court-adjourns-hearing-of-zardari-talpurs-bail-applications-till-december-11-266190">Asif Ali Zardari </a>will be shifted to a hospital in Karachi on Friday, a day after he was discharged from Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) sub-jail after being granted bail by the Islamabad High Court (IHC), The News International reported.

The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader was scheduled to leave for Karachi yesterday but the party decided against it. The former Pakistan president was granted bail on medical grounds by the IHC in connection with two money laundering cases filed against him by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).

He was arrested by the anti-corruption body on June 10 after the IHC had rejected his pre-arrest bail in the fake bank accounts case.

In October, Zardari was shifted to PIMS from judicial custody at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi after the medical board stated that the former president was suffering from cardiac issues, diabetes, and other ailments and required urgent medical care.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Former Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari will be shifted to a hospital in Karachi on Friday, a day after he was discharged from Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) sub-jail after being granted bail by the Islamabad High Court (IHC), The News International reported.

Former Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari will be shifted to a hospital in Karachi on Friday, a day after he was discharged from Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) sub-jail after being granted bail by the Islamabad High Court (IHC), The News International reported. The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader was scheduled to leave for Karachi yesterday but the party decided against it. The former Pakistan president was granted bail on medical grounds by the IHC in connection with two money laundering cases filed against him by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). He was arrested by the anti-corruption body on June 10 after the IHC had rejected his pre-arrest bail in the fake bank accounts case. In October, Zardari was shifted to PIMS from judicial custody at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi after the medical board stated that the former president was suffering from cardiac issues, diabetes, and other ailments and required urgent medical care.

Pakistan: Day after release from sub-jail, Asif Ali Zardari to be shifted to Karachi hospital

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/high-treason-case-against-me-baseless-lawyer-not-being-heard-musharraf-266085">Islamabad High Court</a> (IHC) on Wednesday adjourned the hearing of former president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-former-president-asif-ali-zardaris-bail-application-admitted-in-high-court-266001">Asif Ali Zardari</a> and his sister Faryal Talpur's bail petitions in connection with two money laundering cases.

A two-member bench headed by Justice Athar Minallah presided over the hearing of the bail applications in the graft cases through fake bank accounts and Park Lane corruption references, Dunya News reported.

The applications were filed by Farooq H Naek on behalf of both <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-peoples-party-a-brief-history--149576">Pakistan Peoples Party</a> (PPP) leaders. The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-national-accountability-bureau-to-freeze-shehbaz-sharifs-properties-in-disproportionate-assets-case-236464">National Accountability Bureau</a> (NAB) and the federal government have been made respondents in the petitions.

The applications maintained that the NAB has failed to provide any evidence against the PPP leaders since their arrest, which took place more than five months ago.

On Tuesday, Zardari had filed two bail applications on medical grounds in two references whereas Talpur sought bail from the same court in one corruption reference, while pleading with the court that she was a mother of a differently-abled child, and therefore she needed to take care of that child.

The former president, who is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Islamabad, has maintained in the bail plea that he is suffering from a heart condition as well as diabetes and needs medical care.

On July 1, the NAB had arrested Zardari in the Park Lane case while he was already in custody with the bureau's Rawalpindi directorate in connection with the fake accounts case.

On July 29, an accountability court issued copies of the Park Lane reference against former president Zardari which states that the former president had taken Rs 1.5 billion loan from the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) in the name of fake company Parthenon.

The PPP leader was 25 per cent shareholder in Park Lane Company and he also made a fake company Parthenon in the name of his employees. Besides, the property was also bought in the IBC Center where the bureau has sealed eight floors.

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday adjourned the hearing of former president Asif Ali Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur's bail petitions in connection with two money laundering cases.

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday adjourned the hearing of former president Asif Ali Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur's bail petitions in connection with two money laundering cases. A two-member bench headed by Justice Athar Minallah presided over the hearing of the bail applications in the graft cases through fake bank accounts and Park Lane corruption references, Dunya News reported. The applications were filed by Farooq H Naek on behalf of both Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leaders. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and the federal government have been made respondents in the petitions. The applications maintained that the NAB has failed to provide any evidence against the PPP leaders since their arrest, which took place more than five months ago. On Tuesday, Zardari had filed two bail applications on medical grounds in two references whereas Talpur sought bail from the same court in one corruption reference, while pleading with the court that she was a mother of a differently-abled child, and therefore she needed to take care of that child. The former president, who is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Islamabad, has maintained in the bail plea that he is suffering from a heart condition as well as diabetes and needs medical care. On July 1, the NAB had arrested Zardari in the Park Lane case while he was already in custody with the bureau's Rawalpindi directorate in connection with the fake accounts case. On July 29, an accountability court issued copies of the Park Lane reference against former president Zardari which states that the former president had taken Rs 1.5 billion loan from the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) in the name of fake company Parthenon. The PPP leader was 25 per cent shareholder in Park Lane Company and he also made a fake company Parthenon in the name of his employees. Besides, the property was also bought in the IBC Center where the bureau has sealed eight floors.

Court adjourns hearing of Zardari, Talpur's bail applications till December 11

The Islamabad High Court on Tuesday admitted a petition filed by former president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-bail-plea-to-be-submitted-for-zardaris-release-on-medical-grounds-265853">Asif Ali Zardari</a>, seeking medical bail in two cases filed against him by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).

The petition will be heard by IHC tomorrow, Dawn reported.

Zardari has been detained on charges of money laundering and presently undergoing treatment at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad.

He was arrested by NAB after the cancellation of his pre-arrest bail by the IHC in the fake bank accounts case on June 10.

Zardari, who is undergoing treatment at a hospital in Islamabad, has maintained in the bail plea that he is suffering from a heart condition as well as diabetes and needs medical care, Dawn reported.

Zardari's sister Faryal Talpur, who is in custody of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), also sought bail from the IHC, arguing that she is the mother of a differently-abled child and has to take care of her.

The NAB had arrested Zardari on June 10 after the cancellation of his pre-arrest bail by the IHC in the fake bank accounts case. He was brought to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) from Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi on October 22 where he is currently undergoing treatment.&nbsp;

The Islamabad High Court on Tuesday admitted a petition filed by former president Asif Ali Zardari, seeking medical bail in two cases filed against him by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).

The Islamabad High Court on Tuesday admitted a petition filed by former president Asif Ali Zardari, seeking medical bail in two cases filed against him by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). The petition will be heard by IHC tomorrow, Dawn reported. Zardari has been detained on charges of money laundering and presently undergoing treatment at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad. He was arrested by NAB after the cancellation of his pre-arrest bail by the IHC in the fake bank accounts case on June 10. Zardari, who is undergoing treatment at a hospital in Islamabad, has maintained in the bail plea that he is suffering from a heart condition as well as diabetes and needs medical care, Dawn reported. Zardari's sister Faryal Talpur, who is in custody of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), also sought bail from the IHC, arguing that she is the mother of a differently-abled child and has to take care of her. The NAB had arrested Zardari on June 10 after the cancellation of his pre-arrest bail by the IHC in the fake bank accounts case. He was brought to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) from Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi on October 22 where he is currently undergoing treatment.

Pakistan: Former President Asif Ali Zardari's bail application admitted in high court

An accountability court here on Monday extended till August 8 the physical remand of former President Asif Ali Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur in a money laundering case worth Rs 4.4 billion.

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had sought a 10-day physical remand of Zardari and that of five-day of Talpur.

During the proceedings, Zardari's counsel Farooq H Naek requested the court that it would be better if the two were presented in the court the same day, reported the Express Tribune.

Zardari was first arrested by the NAB in June, this year, after the Islamabad High Court (IHC) recalled the pre-arrest bail granted to him and his sister in the fake accounts case.

Zardari and his sister have denied any links with the fake accounts.

The two have the option of appealing the order in the Supreme court.

The case pertains to suspicious transactions worth Rs 4.4 billion allegedly carried out through a fictitious bank account.

In January last year, the Federation Investigation Agency (FIA) began an inquiry when the State Bank of Pakistan's financial monitoring unit issued a "suspicious transaction report" on 10 bank accounts.

Transactions worth billions were made over the years when over 20 bogus accounts were opened with a private bank.&nbsp;

An accountability court here on Monday extended till August 8 the physical remand of former President Asif Ali Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur in a money laundering case worth Rs 4.

An accountability court here on Monday extended till August 8 the physical remand of former President Asif Ali Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur in a money laundering case worth Rs 4.4 billion. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had sought a 10-day physical remand of Zardari and that of five-day of Talpur. During the proceedings, Zardari's counsel Farooq H Naek requested the court that it would be better if the two were presented in the court the same day, reported the Express Tribune. Zardari was first arrested by the NAB in June, this year, after the Islamabad High Court (IHC) recalled the pre-arrest bail granted to him and his sister in the fake accounts case. Zardari and his sister have denied any links with the fake accounts. The two have the option of appealing the order in the Supreme court. The case pertains to suspicious transactions worth Rs 4.4 billion allegedly carried out through a fictitious bank account. In January last year, the Federation Investigation Agency (FIA) began an inquiry when the State Bank of Pakistan's financial monitoring unit issued a "suspicious transaction report" on 10 bank accounts. Transactions worth billions were made over the years when over 20 bogus accounts were opened with a private bank.

Fake accounts case: Asif Ali Zardari's remand extended till August 8

An accountability court in Islamabad on Monday extended till July 29 the physical remand of Asif Ali Zardari, the former president of Pakistan.

Zardari was arrested by National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on July 2 after Islamabad High Court terminated his pre-arrest bail and that of his sister Faryal Talpur in the fake account case, reported Express Tribune.

The PPP leader's physical remand was extended by 13 days on July 02, after which he was supposed to be present in the accountability court today.

Zardari was also arrested by the anti-graft body earlier on June 10 in the fake accounts case.

The Park Lane Estate company is a Karachi-based real estate firm.

The anti-graft watchdog had initiated an inquiry against him and his son, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, on charges that they illegally transferred forest land to Karachi-based realty developers, The Park Lane Estate, in collusion with some government officials.

Bilawal was given a clean chit in the case on June 12.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

An accountability court in Islamabad on Monday extended till July 29 the physical remand of Asif Ali Zardari, the former president of Pakistan. Zardari was arrested by National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on July 2 after Islamabad High Court terminated his pre-arrest bail and that of his sister Faryal Talpur in the fake account case, reported Express Tribune.

An accountability court in Islamabad on Monday extended till July 29 the physical remand of Asif Ali Zardari, the former president of Pakistan. Zardari was arrested by National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on July 2 after Islamabad High Court terminated his pre-arrest bail and that of his sister Faryal Talpur in the fake account case, reported Express Tribune. The PPP leader's physical remand was extended by 13 days on July 02, after which he was supposed to be present in the accountability court today. Zardari was also arrested by the anti-graft body earlier on June 10 in the fake accounts case. The Park Lane Estate company is a Karachi-based real estate firm. The anti-graft watchdog had initiated an inquiry against him and his son, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, on charges that they illegally transferred forest land to Karachi-based realty developers, The Park Lane Estate, in collusion with some government officials. Bilawal was given a clean chit in the case on June 12.

Pakistan: Asif Ali Zardari's remand extended till July 29

An accountability court here on Monday extended the physical remand of Asif Ali Zardari's sister Faryal Talpur for 14 more days in a mega-money laundering case worth Rs. 4.4 billion.

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had requested an extension in the remand of the PPP leader.

The decision would allow the Bureau to further interrogate Talpur till July 22.

Talpur and her brother Zardari, who is the former president of Pakistan, were recently arrested in the graft case. The arrests were made after the Islamabad High Court (IHC) rejected the pre-arrest bail applications of the siblings, reported the Express Tribune.

The case pertains to suspicious transactions worth Rs 4.4 billion allegedly carried out through a fictitious bank account.

In January last year, the Federation Investigation Agency (FIA) began an inquiry when the State Bank of Pakistan's financial monitoring unit issued a "suspicious transaction report" on 10 bank accounts.

Transactions worth billions were made over the years through over 20 bogus accounts opened with a private bank.

At least 32 people are under the FIA scanner for laundering money from fictitious accounts.

Zardari, however, has denied all these allegations.&nbsp;

An accountability court here on Monday extended the physical remand of Asif Ali Zardari's sister Faryal Talpur for 14 more days in a mega-money laundering case worth Rs.

An accountability court here on Monday extended the physical remand of Asif Ali Zardari's sister Faryal Talpur for 14 more days in a mega-money laundering case worth Rs. 4.4 billion. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had requested an extension in the remand of the PPP leader. The decision would allow the Bureau to further interrogate Talpur till July 22. Talpur and her brother Zardari, who is the former president of Pakistan, were recently arrested in the graft case. The arrests were made after the Islamabad High Court (IHC) rejected the pre-arrest bail applications of the siblings, reported the Express Tribune. The case pertains to suspicious transactions worth Rs 4.4 billion allegedly carried out through a fictitious bank account. In January last year, the Federation Investigation Agency (FIA) began an inquiry when the State Bank of Pakistan's financial monitoring unit issued a "suspicious transaction report" on 10 bank accounts. Transactions worth billions were made over the years through over 20 bogus accounts opened with a private bank. At least 32 people are under the FIA scanner for laundering money from fictitious accounts. Zardari, however, has denied all these allegations.

Pakistan: Court extends remand of Zardari's sister in graft case

An accountability court here on Tuesday granted National Accountability Burea (NAB) 13-day physical remand of Pakistan People's Party (PPP) co-chairman and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asif-ali-zardaris-interview-taken-off-air-from-pakistani-tv-channel-232249">former President Asif Ali Zardari </a>in a money laundering case worth Rs 4.4 billion.

The court took up the case as Zardari`s physical remand ended on Tuesday, Express Tribune reported.

The PPP leader's physical remand was extended by 11 days on June 21, after which he was supposed to be presented in the accountability court today.

He was arrested in the Park Lane case on Monday, days after he withdrew his interim bail applications filed with the Islamabad High Court (IHC).

Zardari was also arrested by the anti-graft body earlier on June 10 in the fake accounts case.

Meanwhile, speaking to media personnel in an informal manner outside the accountability court post-hearing, Zardari, criticised the federal government, saying "now that they are taxing cars, it seems like there's a razor in the monkey's hands", according to Geo News.

"The NAB [National Accountability Bureau] didn't arrest me. I actually turned myself in," he added.

Commenting on how arrests of the opposition leaders would continue, the PPP leader said, "We will persistently fight and we are doing so even after turning ourselves in."

The Park Lane Estate company is a Karachi-based real estate firm.

The anti-graft watchdog had initiated an inquiry against him and his son, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, on charges that they illegally transferred forest land to the firm in collusion with some government officials. Bilawal was given a clean chit in the case on June 12.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

An accountability court here on Tuesday granted National Accountability Burea (NAB) 13-day physical remand of Pakistan People's Party (PPP) co-chairman and former President Asif Ali Zardari in a money laundering case worth Rs 4.

An accountability court here on Tuesday granted National Accountability Burea (NAB) 13-day physical remand of Pakistan People's Party (PPP) co-chairman and former President Asif Ali Zardari in a money laundering case worth Rs 4.4 billion. The court took up the case as Zardari`s physical remand ended on Tuesday, Express Tribune reported. The PPP leader's physical remand was extended by 11 days on June 21, after which he was supposed to be presented in the accountability court today. He was arrested in the Park Lane case on Monday, days after he withdrew his interim bail applications filed with the Islamabad High Court (IHC). Zardari was also arrested by the anti-graft body earlier on June 10 in the fake accounts case. Meanwhile, speaking to media personnel in an informal manner outside the accountability court post-hearing, Zardari, criticised the federal government, saying "now that they are taxing cars, it seems like there's a razor in the monkey's hands", according to Geo News. "The NAB [National Accountability Bureau] didn't arrest me. I actually turned myself in," he added. Commenting on how arrests of the opposition leaders would continue, the PPP leader said, "We will persistently fight and we are doing so even after turning ourselves in." The Park Lane Estate company is a Karachi-based real estate firm. The anti-graft watchdog had initiated an inquiry against him and his son, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, on charges that they illegally transferred forest land to the firm in collusion with some government officials. Bilawal was given a clean chit in the case on June 12.

Pakistan: Court remands Asif Ali Zardari to National Accountability Bureau custody for 13 days

An interview of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/stop-arresting-me-it-will-create-fear-pakistans-ex-president-zardari-229028">former President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari </a>conducted by country's senior journalist Hamid Mir was taken off air within a few minutes of broadcasting on Monday.

Expressing his dismay in a series of tweets over the matter, journalist Mir informed that Zardari's interview began to air on Pakistani TV channel Geo News at 8:03 pm (local time).&nbsp;

It remains unclear as to why the interview was taken off a few minutes later.

"Interview of Asif Zardari stopped on Geo News within few minutes those who stopped it has no courage to accept publically that they stopped it," wrote Mir.

Mir went on to say, "Geo News announced that interview of Asif Zardari will not be aired it was started at 8:03 and stopped within few minutes I am getting calls from all over the world people asking what happened? The state of Pakistan giving a bad name to this country we don't need enemies."

In a later tweet, Mir claimed that he received a call where he told that the team of a local television channel was under pressure to not interview him over the said matter.

"I was sitting in front of a Dawn News camera for 11 o clock show and then I received a call that @ZaraHatKay_Dawn team is under pressure not to interview me on Asif Ali Zardari issue they said sorry I said thank you, somebody, for running and controlling Pakistan on telephone calls," wrote Mir.&nbsp;

Notably, the incident took place against the backdrop of Zardari's arrest on Monday in a multi-million dollar money laundering case.

An interview of former President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari conducted by country's senior journalist Hamid Mir was taken off air within a few minutes of broadcasting on Monday.

An interview of former President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari conducted by country's senior journalist Hamid Mir was taken off air within a few minutes of broadcasting on Monday. Expressing his dismay in a series of tweets over the matter, journalist Mir informed that Zardari's interview began to air on Pakistani TV channel Geo News at 8:03 pm (local time). It remains unclear as to why the interview was taken off a few minutes later. "Interview of Asif Zardari stopped on Geo News within few minutes those who stopped it has no courage to accept publically that they stopped it," wrote Mir. Mir went on to say, "Geo News announced that interview of Asif Zardari will not be aired it was started at 8:03 and stopped within few minutes I am getting calls from all over the world people asking what happened? The state of Pakistan giving a bad name to this country we don't need enemies." In a later tweet, Mir claimed that he received a call where he told that the team of a local television channel was under pressure to not interview him over the said matter. "I was sitting in front of a Dawn News camera for 11 o clock show and then I received a call that @ZaraHatKay_Dawn team is under pressure not to interview me on Asif Ali Zardari issue they said sorry I said thank you, somebody, for running and controlling Pakistan on telephone calls," wrote Mir. Notably, the incident took place against the backdrop of Zardari's arrest on Monday in a multi-million dollar money laundering case.

Pakistan's former President Asif Ali Zardari's interview taken off air from TV channel within minutes of broadcast

Former Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari was on Monday arrested in a multi-million dollar money laundering case by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).

Asif Ali Zardari was allegedly running a fake front company by the name of Parathon as a shareholder in Park Lane properties, ARY News has reported.

The charges entail that the former President took out a loan worth Rs 1.5 billion from the National Bank of Pakistan in the name of Parathon and transferred to the company account in a private bank.

Zardari, who is already in the custody of the anti-corruption watchdog, is set to appear in front of the Accountability Court on Tuesday with regards to the allegations on him.

The investigating officer in the money laundering case will request for an extension in his remand, while another officer will request his remand in the Park Lane case.

If the court approves his physical remand in both cases then the investigating officers will have the right to question him in their respective cases, Samaa news agency reported.

Warrants for the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) co-chairman's arrest were issued after bail pleas of the accused were withdrawn earlier.

The Park Lane Estate company is a Karachi-based real estate firm. The anti-graft watchdog had initiated an inquiry against him and his son, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, on charges that they illegally transferred forest land to the firm in collusion with some government officials. Bilawal was given a clean chit in the case on June 12.

The money laundering case, on the other hand, refers to the embezzlement of Rs 4.4 billion. NAB has accused Zardari and his sister, Member of the Provincial Assembly (MPA) from Faryal Talpur, of owning shares of the Zardari Group, a company that received some of the embezzled funds.

Former Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari was on Monday arrested in a multi-million dollar money laundering case by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). Asif Ali Zardari was allegedly running a fake front company by the name of Parathon as a shareholder in Park Lane properties, ARY News has reported.

Former Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari was on Monday arrested in a multi-million dollar money laundering case by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). Asif Ali Zardari was allegedly running a fake front company by the name of Parathon as a shareholder in Park Lane properties, ARY News has reported. The charges entail that the former President took out a loan worth Rs 1.5 billion from the National Bank of Pakistan in the name of Parathon and transferred to the company account in a private bank. Zardari, who is already in the custody of the anti-corruption watchdog, is set to appear in front of the Accountability Court on Tuesday with regards to the allegations on him. The investigating officer in the money laundering case will request for an extension in his remand, while another officer will request his remand in the Park Lane case. If the court approves his physical remand in both cases then the investigating officers will have the right to question him in their respective cases, Samaa news agency reported. Warrants for the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) co-chairman's arrest were issued after bail pleas of the accused were withdrawn earlier. The Park Lane Estate company is a Karachi-based real estate firm. The anti-graft watchdog had initiated an inquiry against him and his son, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, on charges that they illegally transferred forest land to the firm in collusion with some government officials. Bilawal was given a clean chit in the case on June 12. The money laundering case, on the other hand, refers to the embezzlement of Rs 4.4 billion. NAB has accused Zardari and his sister, Member of the Provincial Assembly (MPA) from Faryal Talpur, of owning shares of the Zardari Group, a company that received some of the embezzled funds.

Former Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari arrested in Park Lane Properties case

Former Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari's remand was extended by 11 days on Friday by an accountability court in the money laundering case.

Zardari, 63, who is Co-Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), will now remain in the custody of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) till July 2, the Dawn reported.

He was arrested on June 10 by the anti-corruption body after the Islamabad High Court rejected his bail plea in the case.

Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur are two of the main accused in the money laundering scandal which utilised fake bank accounts to channel illegally gained funds out of Pakistan.

A day after his arrest, accountability court judge Mohammad Arshad Malik granted NAB his physical remand and ordered that Zardari be presented before the court again on June 21.

Earlier on Friday, a NAB team produced the former president before Judge Malik and sought a two-week extension in Zardari's remand, the report said.

But the judge extended Zardari's remand by 11 days.&nbsp;

During the hearing, the anti-graft body presented its report in the probe and NAB deputy prosecutor general Muzaffar Khan Abbasi also submitted a report of Zardari's medical check-up, the report said.

When the judge asked Abbasi to share what the agency had uncovered so far, he said during the investigation, Zardari had admitted to having a close relationship with a fugitive named Nasir Abdullah.

However, Zardari did not admit that Abdullah was his frontman, he added.

Zardari's counsel Latif Khosa said: "They (NAB) have not found out anything, they were just making up stories because this entire case is based upon assumptions."

Khosa said that in his statement, the former president had said that he knew Abdullah but they had not had any financial exchanges.

"It is not a crime to know a person," said Farooq H Naek, the other lawyer representing Zardari.

Khosa further added, "Cases are being made against us on a political basis.

"This is not the first time this is happening with us, it has also happened in the past," he added.

According to the NAB officials, Zardari and his sister made transactions of Rs 150 million through alleged fake bank accounts.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari's remand was extended by 11 days on Friday by an accountability court in the money laundering case. Zardari, 63, who is Co-Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), will now remain in the custody of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) till July 2, the Dawn reported.

Former Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari's remand was extended by 11 days on Friday by an accountability court in the money laundering case. Zardari, 63, who is Co-Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), will now remain in the custody of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) till July 2, the Dawn reported. He was arrested on June 10 by the anti-corruption body after the Islamabad High Court rejected his bail plea in the case. Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur are two of the main accused in the money laundering scandal which utilised fake bank accounts to channel illegally gained funds out of Pakistan. A day after his arrest, accountability court judge Mohammad Arshad Malik granted NAB his physical remand and ordered that Zardari be presented before the court again on June 21. Earlier on Friday, a NAB team produced the former president before Judge Malik and sought a two-week extension in Zardari's remand, the report said. But the judge extended Zardari's remand by 11 days. During the hearing, the anti-graft body presented its report in the probe and NAB deputy prosecutor general Muzaffar Khan Abbasi also submitted a report of Zardari's medical check-up, the report said. When the judge asked Abbasi to share what the agency had uncovered so far, he said during the investigation, Zardari had admitted to having a close relationship with a fugitive named Nasir Abdullah. However, Zardari did not admit that Abdullah was his frontman, he added. Zardari's counsel Latif Khosa said: "They (NAB) have not found out anything, they were just making up stories because this entire case is based upon assumptions." Khosa said that in his statement, the former president had said that he knew Abdullah but they had not had any financial exchanges. "It is not a crime to know a person," said Farooq H Naek, the other lawyer representing Zardari. Khosa further added, "Cases are being made against us on a political basis. "This is not the first time this is happening with us, it has also happened in the past," he added. According to the NAB officials, Zardari and his sister made transactions of Rs 150 million through alleged fake bank accounts.

Pakistan anti-graft court extends Asif Ali Zardari's remand till July 2

Pakistan's former president Asif Ali Zardari, appearing in Parliament on Thursday for the first time after being arrested in a corruption case, called for an end to his arrest, saying it would not make a difference rather create fear among the people.

Zardari, who is in the custody of the anti-corruption body National Accountability Bureau (NAB), appeared before the house after the National Assembly Secretariat issued a production order to attend Parliament session.

He said that it is time to stop the accountability and arrests, and move forward, Geo News reported.

The 63-year-old co-chairman of the Opposition Pakistan Peoples Party and husband of the country's first woman prime minister Benazir Bhutto was arrested by the NAB from his house last week in a multi-million dollar money laundering case, hours after the Islamabad High Court rejected his bail plea.

A seemingly disappointed Zardari said that putting him behind the bars would not make any difference.

"My arrest will not make a difference. It will only strengthen the party. However, it will create fear among the common man that if Zardari can be arrested then they can also be arrested," he said.

According to the production order, the NAB is directed to produce Zardari at the "commencement of each sitting of the National Assembly before the Seargeant-at-Arms at the Parliament House, Islamabad, who shall, after the conclusion of the sittings deliver him into your custody accordingly".

Commenting on the current economic situation, he said that there would be protests if the country's economic situation continues to deteriorate.

 
The former president said that the government should avoid taking steps that could trigger countrywide protests and create a situation that would no longer be in control of the political parties.

"They should think about this and the forces that brought them into power should also think about the consequences," Zardari said.

Criticising the budget presented by the government last week, he said that the budget raised government salaries but it also increased taxes.

"There is fear among the businessmen. If you have more than Rs 500,000 in your cheque book, then you receive a notice to give an explanation for it.&nbsp;There is no doubt that this budget was not made by them," he said.

"If we are receiving money from the IMF, why are the people crying? Why are the industries crying?" Zardari asked.

The current economic situation was an issue for everyone and that the government and opposition should sit together to discuss the issues affecting the economy, he added.

Last week after his arrest, Zardari was admitted to a hospital in Rawalpindi after a drop in his sugar level and blood pressure.

Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur are two of the main accused in the money laundering scandal which utilised fake bank accounts to channel illegally gained funds out of Pakistan.

According to the NAB, the duo made transactions of Rs 150 million through alleged fake bank accounts.&nbsp;

Zardari, the 11th President of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013, has denied any link with the fake accounts. He has said the allegation was part of a vilification campaign by the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party to malign opposition leaders.

Pakistan's former president Asif Ali Zardari, appearing in Parliament on Thursday for the first time after being arrested in a corruption case, called for an end to his arrest, saying it would not make a difference rather create fear among the people.

Pakistan's former president Asif Ali Zardari, appearing in Parliament on Thursday for the first time after being arrested in a corruption case, called for an end to his arrest, saying it would not make a difference rather create fear among the people. Zardari, who is in the custody of the anti-corruption body National Accountability Bureau (NAB), appeared before the house after the National Assembly Secretariat issued a production order to attend Parliament session. He said that it is time to stop the accountability and arrests, and move forward, Geo News reported. The 63-year-old co-chairman of the Opposition Pakistan Peoples Party and husband of the country's first woman prime minister Benazir Bhutto was arrested by the NAB from his house last week in a multi-million dollar money laundering case, hours after the Islamabad High Court rejected his bail plea. A seemingly disappointed Zardari said that putting him behind the bars would not make any difference. "My arrest will not make a difference. It will only strengthen the party. However, it will create fear among the common man that if Zardari can be arrested then they can also be arrested," he said. According to the production order, the NAB is directed to produce Zardari at the "commencement of each sitting of the National Assembly before the Seargeant-at-Arms at the Parliament House, Islamabad, who shall, after the conclusion of the sittings deliver him into your custody accordingly". Commenting on the current economic situation, he said that there would be protests if the country's economic situation continues to deteriorate. The former president said that the government should avoid taking steps that could trigger countrywide protests and create a situation that would no longer be in control of the political parties. "They should think about this and the forces that brought them into power should also think about the consequences," Zardari said. Criticising the budget presented by the government last week, he said that the budget raised government salaries but it also increased taxes. "There is fear among the businessmen. If you have more than Rs 500,000 in your cheque book, then you receive a notice to give an explanation for it. There is no doubt that this budget was not made by them," he said. "If we are receiving money from the IMF, why are the people crying? Why are the industries crying?" Zardari asked. The current economic situation was an issue for everyone and that the government and opposition should sit together to discuss the issues affecting the economy, he added. Last week after his arrest, Zardari was admitted to a hospital in Rawalpindi after a drop in his sugar level and blood pressure. Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur are two of the main accused in the money laundering scandal which utilised fake bank accounts to channel illegally gained funds out of Pakistan. According to the NAB, the duo made transactions of Rs 150 million through alleged fake bank accounts. Zardari, the 11th President of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013, has denied any link with the fake accounts. He has said the allegation was part of a vilification campaign by the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party to malign opposition leaders.

Stop arresting me, it will create fear: Pakistan's ex-president Asif Ali Zardari

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa`s (KP) Finance Minister Taimur Saleem Jhagra presented the province`s Rs. 900 billion (Pakistan rupee) budget for 2019-2020 at the KP assembly Peshawar on Tuesday, amidst protests by the opposition.

Rs&nbsp;236 billion have been earmarked annually for development programs in the latest budget, according to Dawn.

The Opposition waged protests as the budget speech was being delivered at the assembly here against the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI)-led central government`s failure at issuing production orders for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pakistani-president-asif-ali-zardari-arrested-on-corruption-charges-225991">Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chief Asif Ali Zardari.</a>

&nbsp;The provincial income taxes are being increased as per the budget speech. Individuals who earn Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 30,000 per month would have to set aside Rs. 1,000 towards taxes every month.

Furthermore, individuals with a monthly income falling between Rs. 30,000 and Rs. 50,000 would be required to pay a tax of Rs. 1,200/month.&nbsp;

An Rs. 1,500 tax has been proposed for those earning between Rs. 50,000 and Rs. 1,00,000, while individuals earning between Rs. 1,00,000 and Rs. 2,00,000 per month would be required to pay Rs. 2,000 as taxes per month.

Those whose salary falls between Rs. 2,00,001 to half a million rupees would have to shell out Rs. 3,000 as tax per month, while those earning more than half a million rupees have been proposed to pay Rs. 5,000.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the salaries of public sector employees from grade one to 16 will see a 10 per cent hike while grade 17-grade 19 employees`salaries would go up by five per cent under an ad hoc relief allowance, Dawn reported.&nbsp;

Zero taxation for grade one to six employees of the provincial government has been proposed in the latest budget by the KP government.&nbsp;

The Pakistani daily reported that public sector employees from grade seven to 12 would have to pay Rs. 1,000 per month in taxes, grade 13 to 17 employees would have to cough up Rs. 1,500 tax per month, while grade 18 employees would have to set aside Rs. 1,800 monthly towards taxes.&nbsp;

Grade 19 and 20 officers, meanwhile, would have to give Rs. 2,000 and Rs. 3,000 respectively every month as taxes.&nbsp;

As per the budget speech, tailors who stitch shalwar kameez suits will have to shell out Rs. 10,000 as taxes annually, while those who stitch trousers and shirts will pay Rs. 15,000 per year.&nbsp;

The rate of taxation on private companies and businesses is also proposed to go up. Businesses worth Rs. 10 million to Rs. 200 million may have to pay anywhere between Rs. 27,000 to Rs. 1,00,000 annually according to the latest budget.&nbsp;

While unveiling the budget, Jhagra announced that the Insaf health card will be issued to every family in the province. He also revealed that 21,000 jobs in the public sector would be created.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa`s (KP) Finance Minister Taimur Saleem Jhagra presented the province`s Rs. 900 billion (Pakistan rupee) budget for 2019-2020 at the KP assembly Peshawar on Tuesday, amidst protests by the opposition.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa`s (KP) Finance Minister Taimur Saleem Jhagra presented the province`s Rs. 900 billion (Pakistan rupee) budget for 2019-2020 at the KP assembly Peshawar on Tuesday, amidst protests by the opposition. Rs 236 billion have been earmarked annually for development programs in the latest budget, according to Dawn. The Opposition waged protests as the budget speech was being delivered at the assembly here against the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI)-led central government`s failure at issuing production orders for Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chief Asif Ali Zardari. The provincial income taxes are being increased as per the budget speech. Individuals who earn Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 30,000 per month would have to set aside Rs. 1,000 towards taxes every month. Furthermore, individuals with a monthly income falling between Rs. 30,000 and Rs. 50,000 would be required to pay a tax of Rs. 1,200/month. An Rs. 1,500 tax has been proposed for those earning between Rs. 50,000 and Rs. 1,00,000, while individuals earning between Rs. 1,00,000 and Rs. 2,00,000 per month would be required to pay Rs. 2,000 as taxes per month. Those whose salary falls between Rs. 2,00,001 to half a million rupees would have to shell out Rs. 3,000 as tax per month, while those earning more than half a million rupees have been proposed to pay Rs. 5,000. Meanwhile, the salaries of public sector employees from grade one to 16 will see a 10 per cent hike while grade 17-grade 19 employees`salaries would go up by five per cent under an ad hoc relief allowance, Dawn reported. Zero taxation for grade one to six employees of the provincial government has been proposed in the latest budget by the KP government. The Pakistani daily reported that public sector employees from grade seven to 12 would have to pay Rs. 1,000 per month in taxes, grade 13 to 17 employees would have to cough up Rs. 1,500 tax per month, while grade 18 employees would have to set aside Rs. 1,800 monthly towards taxes. Grade 19 and 20 officers, meanwhile, would have to give Rs. 2,000 and Rs. 3,000 respectively every month as taxes. As per the budget speech, tailors who stitch shalwar kameez suits will have to shell out Rs. 10,000 as taxes annually, while those who stitch trousers and shirts will pay Rs. 15,000 per year. The rate of taxation on private companies and businesses is also proposed to go up. Businesses worth Rs. 10 million to Rs. 200 million may have to pay anywhere between Rs. 27,000 to Rs. 1,00,000 annually according to the latest budget. While unveiling the budget, Jhagra announced that the Insaf health card will be issued to every family in the province. He also revealed that 21,000 jobs in the public sector would be created.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government presents Rs 900 billion budget for 2019-20

Pakistan's top anti-graft body has arrested sister of former president Asif Ali Zardari in a case related to money laundering through fake bank accounts, a media report said Friday.

Faryal Talpur, 61, was arrested by the officials of the National Accountability Bureau from in Islamabad, days after the anti-graft body apprehended her brother and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) co-chairman Zardari on Monday.

The Islamabad High Court on Monday rejected the two leaders' bail plea in connection to a high-profile case of money laundering allegedly through fake banks accounts.

In its orders, the court allowed the NAB to arrest Zardari and Talpur. The brother-sister duo now have the option of appealing the order in the Supreme Court.

An arrest warrant was handed to NAB Rawalpindi three days ago, following which it constituted a team to arrest the PPP leader Talpur, Geo News quoted NAB officials as saying.

The NAB will not shift Talpur to its offices but would keep her under custody at her Islamabad residence, which has been declared a sub-jail, the report said.

The officials have also summoned a team of doctors at the sub-jail to conduct Talpur's medical examination.

The Bureau is expected to present Talpur in an accountability court on Saturday to seek her physical remand, the report said.

The NAB is investigating four cases where the former president and his sister are the prime accused.

Zardari and his sister are two of the main accused in the money laundering scandal which utilised fake bank accounts to channel illegally gained funds out of Pakistan.

According to the NAB officials, the duo made transactions of Rs 150 million through alleged fake bank accounts.

The cases against Zardari are part of the investigations being conducted by NAB in pursuance of the Supreme Court's verdict in the money laundering of billions through fake accounts case.

In the report, NAB listed down at least eight cases where Zardari's link had been established. It further added that 22 inquiries and three investigations were underway while three references had been filed.

Zardari, the 11th President of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013, has denied any link with the fake accounts. He has said the allegation was part of a vilification campaign by the ruling party to malign opposition leaders.

Pakistan's top anti-graft body has arrested sister of former president Asif Ali Zardari in a case related to money laundering through fake bank accounts, a media report said Friday.

Pakistan's top anti-graft body has arrested sister of former president Asif Ali Zardari in a case related to money laundering through fake bank accounts, a media report said Friday. Faryal Talpur, 61, was arrested by the officials of the National Accountability Bureau from in Islamabad, days after the anti-graft body apprehended her brother and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) co-chairman Zardari on Monday. The Islamabad High Court on Monday rejected the two leaders' bail plea in connection to a high-profile case of money laundering allegedly through fake banks accounts. In its orders, the court allowed the NAB to arrest Zardari and Talpur. The brother-sister duo now have the option of appealing the order in the Supreme Court. An arrest warrant was handed to NAB Rawalpindi three days ago, following which it constituted a team to arrest the PPP leader Talpur, Geo News quoted NAB officials as saying. The NAB will not shift Talpur to its offices but would keep her under custody at her Islamabad residence, which has been declared a sub-jail, the report said. The officials have also summoned a team of doctors at the sub-jail to conduct Talpur's medical examination. The Bureau is expected to present Talpur in an accountability court on Saturday to seek her physical remand, the report said. The NAB is investigating four cases where the former president and his sister are the prime accused. Zardari and his sister are two of the main accused in the money laundering scandal which utilised fake bank accounts to channel illegally gained funds out of Pakistan. According to the NAB officials, the duo made transactions of Rs 150 million through alleged fake bank accounts. The cases against Zardari are part of the investigations being conducted by NAB in pursuance of the Supreme Court's verdict in the money laundering of billions through fake accounts case. In the report, NAB listed down at least eight cases where Zardari's link had been established. It further added that 22 inquiries and three investigations were underway while three references had been filed. Zardari, the 11th President of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013, has denied any link with the fake accounts. He has said the allegation was part of a vilification campaign by the ruling party to malign opposition leaders.

Pakistan's anti-graft body arrests ex-President Zardari's sister in fake accounts case

Pakistan's former president Asif Ali Zardari, who is in the custody of National Accountability Bureau (NAB), was admitted to a hospital in Rawalpindi on Thursday after a drop in his sugar level and blood pressure, according to a media report.&nbsp;

A NAB team arrested the 63-year-old co-chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) from his house here on Monday in a multi-million dollar money laundering case, hours after the Islamabad High Court rejected his bail plea.

On Tuesday, an accountability court granted the NAB 11-day physical remand of Zardari and ordered that he be presented before the court again on June 21.

The former president was shifted to Rawalpindi Institute of Cardiology (RIC) on Thursday evening, the Geo TV reported.

He underwent angiography and other tests at the facility, it said.&nbsp;

According to NAB officials, it was a routine check-up of the PPP leader. However, Zardari's party said it was not formally informed about the deterioration in the health condition of the co-chairman.

Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur are two of the main accused in the money laundering scandal which utilised fake bank accounts to channel illegally gained funds out of Pakistan.

According to the NAB, the anti-corruption watchdog which is probing them in the fake bank accounts case, the duo made transactions of Rs 150 million through alleged fake bank accounts.&nbsp;

Zardari, the 11th President of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013, has denied any link with the fake accounts. He has said the allegation was part of a vilification campaign by the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party to malign opposition leaders.

He was elected as a member of the National Assembly from the NA-213 Nawabshah seat of Sindh province in last year's general election.&nbsp;

Zardari's arrest prompted a strong reaction from the Opposition and sporadic protests by PPP workers in various parts of the country, mostly in the party-ruled Sindh province.&nbsp;

Pakistan's former president Asif Ali Zardari, who is in the custody of National Accountability Bureau (NAB), was admitted to a hospital in Rawalpindi on Thursday after a drop in his sugar level and blood pressure, according to a media report.

Pakistan's former president Asif Ali Zardari, who is in the custody of National Accountability Bureau (NAB), was admitted to a hospital in Rawalpindi on Thursday after a drop in his sugar level and blood pressure, according to a media report. A NAB team arrested the 63-year-old co-chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) from his house here on Monday in a multi-million dollar money laundering case, hours after the Islamabad High Court rejected his bail plea. On Tuesday, an accountability court granted the NAB 11-day physical remand of Zardari and ordered that he be presented before the court again on June 21. The former president was shifted to Rawalpindi Institute of Cardiology (RIC) on Thursday evening, the Geo TV reported. He underwent angiography and other tests at the facility, it said. According to NAB officials, it was a routine check-up of the PPP leader. However, Zardari's party said it was not formally informed about the deterioration in the health condition of the co-chairman. Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur are two of the main accused in the money laundering scandal which utilised fake bank accounts to channel illegally gained funds out of Pakistan. According to the NAB, the anti-corruption watchdog which is probing them in the fake bank accounts case, the duo made transactions of Rs 150 million through alleged fake bank accounts. Zardari, the 11th President of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013, has denied any link with the fake accounts. He has said the allegation was part of a vilification campaign by the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party to malign opposition leaders. He was elected as a member of the National Assembly from the NA-213 Nawabshah seat of Sindh province in last year's general election. Zardari's arrest prompted a strong reaction from the Opposition and sporadic protests by PPP workers in various parts of the country, mostly in the party-ruled Sindh province.

Zardari admitted to hospital after drop in sugar level, blood pressure: Report

&nbsp;An accountability court Wednesday remanded Opposition leader in Pakistan's Punjab Assembly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-restrains-anti-graft-body-from-arresting-hamza-shehbaz-208787">Hamza Shahbaz</a> to 14-day physical custody, a day after the country's anti-graft body arrested him in cases related to money laundering and corruption.

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) was granted Hamza's custody till June 26. Judge Jawadul Hassan pronounced the reserved verdict after hearing the arguments from both sides in the case.

A NAB team earlier brought Hamza, 44, to the court amid tight security. Hamza is the son of PML-N president and National Assembly opposition leader Shahbaz Sharif.

The NAB prosecutor informed the court that the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) vice president had failed to disclose the means from which he received Rs 500 million transferred into his account.

The NAB had requested for a 15-day physical remand of the PML-N leader. The court has ordered Hamza to be presented before the accountability court on June 26, Geo News reported.

Hamza was arrested Tuesday by the NAB officials after a two-member Lahore High Court (LHC) bench dismissed bail applications filed by him.

His arrest came a day after former president Asif Ali Zardari was arrested by NAB in Islamabad.

Hamza is accused of laundering money through his front men who are already in NAB's custody.

He is under investigation in the Ramzan Sugar Mills, Saaf Paani project and assets beyond known means of income cases.

The NAB has found evidence of money laundering on a massive scale through which Shehbaz and his family accumulated assets in the UK.

According to sources privy to NAB's investigation, the illegally accumulated assets are worth Rs 85 billion to Rs 100 billion and were bought during Shebaz's tenure as the Punjab Chief Minister.

In the Ramzan Sugar Mills corruption case, Shehbaz and his son Hamza are accused of "fraudulently and dishonestly" causing a Rs 213 million loss to the national exchequer.

Shehbaz was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau in October 2018 and released on bail on February 14.

His brother and three-time Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif have been serving a seven-year prison term at Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore since December 24, 2018, when an accountability court convicted him in one of the three corruption cases filed in the wake of the apex court's July 28, 2017 order in the Panama Papers case.

Both Sharif and his daughter Maryam have been sentenced to seven years in prison, respectively. Maryam's husband Muhammad Safdar was jailed for one year in the same case.

Sharif and his family have denied any wrongdoing and allege that the corruption cases against them are politically motivated.

An accountability court Wednesday remanded Opposition leader in Pakistan's Punjab Assembly Hamza Shahbaz to 14-day physical custody, a day after the country's anti-graft body arrested him in cases related to money laundering and corruption.

An accountability court Wednesday remanded Opposition leader in Pakistan's Punjab Assembly Hamza Shahbaz to 14-day physical custody, a day after the country's anti-graft body arrested him in cases related to money laundering and corruption. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) was granted Hamza's custody till June 26. Judge Jawadul Hassan pronounced the reserved verdict after hearing the arguments from both sides in the case. A NAB team earlier brought Hamza, 44, to the court amid tight security. Hamza is the son of PML-N president and National Assembly opposition leader Shahbaz Sharif. The NAB prosecutor informed the court that the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) vice president had failed to disclose the means from which he received Rs 500 million transferred into his account. The NAB had requested for a 15-day physical remand of the PML-N leader. The court has ordered Hamza to be presented before the accountability court on June 26, Geo News reported. Hamza was arrested Tuesday by the NAB officials after a two-member Lahore High Court (LHC) bench dismissed bail applications filed by him. His arrest came a day after former president Asif Ali Zardari was arrested by NAB in Islamabad. Hamza is accused of laundering money through his front men who are already in NAB's custody. He is under investigation in the Ramzan Sugar Mills, Saaf Paani project and assets beyond known means of income cases. The NAB has found evidence of money laundering on a massive scale through which Shehbaz and his family accumulated assets in the UK. According to sources privy to NAB's investigation, the illegally accumulated assets are worth Rs 85 billion to Rs 100 billion and were bought during Shebaz's tenure as the Punjab Chief Minister. In the Ramzan Sugar Mills corruption case, Shehbaz and his son Hamza are accused of "fraudulently and dishonestly" causing a Rs 213 million loss to the national exchequer. Shehbaz was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau in October 2018 and released on bail on February 14. His brother and three-time Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif have been serving a seven-year prison term at Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore since December 24, 2018, when an accountability court convicted him in one of the three corruption cases filed in the wake of the apex court's July 28, 2017 order in the Panama Papers case. Both Sharif and his daughter Maryam have been sentenced to seven years in prison, respectively. Maryam's husband Muhammad Safdar was jailed for one year in the same case. Sharif and his family have denied any wrongdoing and allege that the corruption cases against them are politically motivated.

Hamza Shahbaz remanded into 14-day National Accountability Bureau custody

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pakistani-president-asif-ali-zardari-arrested-on-corruption-charges-225991">Pakistan's former president Asif Ali Zardari</a> was produced before an accountability court in Islamabad&nbsp;on Tuesday by the anti-graft body seeking his physical remand, a day after he was arrested from his residence in the fake bank accounts case.

A team of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) accompanied by police, including female officials, arrested the Pakistan Peoples Party co-chairman hours after the Islamabad High Court rejected his bail plea.

Prior to his arrival at the court on Tuesday, a three-member team of doctors conducted a medical examination of the former president. According to the NAB sources, Zardari was found to be fit for physical remand.

Zardari, 63, and his sister are two of the main accused in the money laundering scandal which utilised fake bank accounts to channel illegally gained funds out of Pakistan.&nbsp;

According to the NAB officials, the duo made transactions of Rs 150 million through alleged fake bank accounts.&nbsp;

The arrest warrants were issued on Sunday by the NAB, the anti-corruption watchdog, which is probing them in the fake bank accounts case.

Zardari, the 11th President of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013, has denied any link with the fake accounts. He has said the allegation was part of a vilification campaign by the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party to malign opposition leaders.

He was elected as a member of the National Assembly from the NA-213 Nawabshah seat of Sindh province in last year's general election.&nbsp;

Zardari's arrest prompted a strong reaction from the Opposition and sporadic protests by PPP workers in various parts of the country, mostly in the party-ruled Sindh province.

Terming his father's arrest an act of political victimisation by the government, PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said the Constitution guarantees the right of a fair trial to every citizen. He appealed to party workers to remain calm and wait for party directives. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan's former president Asif Ali Zardari was produced before an accountability court in Islamabad on Tuesday by the anti-graft body seeking his physical remand, a day after he was arrested from his residence in the fake bank accounts case.

Pakistan's former president Asif Ali Zardari was produced before an accountability court in Islamabad on Tuesday by the anti-graft body seeking his physical remand, a day after he was arrested from his residence in the fake bank accounts case. A team of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) accompanied by police, including female officials, arrested the Pakistan Peoples Party co-chairman hours after the Islamabad High Court rejected his bail plea. Prior to his arrival at the court on Tuesday, a three-member team of doctors conducted a medical examination of the former president. According to the NAB sources, Zardari was found to be fit for physical remand. Zardari, 63, and his sister are two of the main accused in the money laundering scandal which utilised fake bank accounts to channel illegally gained funds out of Pakistan. According to the NAB officials, the duo made transactions of Rs 150 million through alleged fake bank accounts. The arrest warrants were issued on Sunday by the NAB, the anti-corruption watchdog, which is probing them in the fake bank accounts case. Zardari, the 11th President of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013, has denied any link with the fake accounts. He has said the allegation was part of a vilification campaign by the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party to malign opposition leaders. He was elected as a member of the National Assembly from the NA-213 Nawabshah seat of Sindh province in last year's general election. Zardari's arrest prompted a strong reaction from the Opposition and sporadic protests by PPP workers in various parts of the country, mostly in the party-ruled Sindh province. Terming his father's arrest an act of political victimisation by the government, PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said the Constitution guarantees the right of a fair trial to every citizen. He appealed to party workers to remain calm and wait for party directives.

Zardari produced before court, anti-graft body seeks physical remand

Former Pakistani President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/remove-imran-to-save-nation-zardari-224448">Asif Ali Zardari </a>was arrested on corruption charges on Monday in a blow to the opposition Pakistan Peoples Party over what media said was an investigation into false bank accounts and money laundering.

Zardari, widower of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), the anti-corruption body's spokesman, Nawazish Ali, said.

Local media channels said NAB arrested Zardari over its investigation into bank accounts and money laundering, with Zardari's sister, Faryal Talpur, also being investigated.

The former president and Talpur could not be reached for comment but they have always denied any wrongdoing linked to those cases and the PPP says the cases are politically motivated.

"Our right to fair trial is being undermined," Zardari's son, PPP leader Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, told a news conference, adding that the NAB officers arrived to arrest his father without any judicial orders.

PPP officials say the cases against Zardari are meant to pile pressure on the party and help Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is seen to be favoured by the country's powerful military.

Khan's other rival, ex-premier Nawaz Sharif, is also in jail on corruption charges.

"The government has no role in (Zardari's arrest)," the interior minister, Ejaz Shah, told parliament, saying it was a court decision.

"This is done by NAB. Our government has nothing to do with it."

Zardari spent 11 years in jail on corruption and murder charges before becoming president in 2008. But he was never convicted and denies any wrongdoing.

After his arrest on Monday, Zardari was seen leaving his house in Islamabad with his son.

During Zardari's departure, PPP supporters chanted "Long live Bhutto", referring to the dynasty which produced three national leaders: party founder Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who served as prime minister and president before being toppled in a coup and executed in 1979, his daughter Benazir, and her husband.

A former businessman and a polo-playing playboy in his younger days, Zardari swept to power in 2008 following a wave of sympathy following the killing of his wife, Benazir, a two-time premier, by Islamist militants in a suicide attack.

Former Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari was arrested on corruption charges on Monday in a blow to the opposition Pakistan Peoples Party over what media said was an investigation into false bank accounts and money laundering.

Former Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari was arrested on corruption charges on Monday in a blow to the opposition Pakistan Peoples Party over what media said was an investigation into false bank accounts and money laundering. Zardari, widower of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), the anti-corruption body's spokesman, Nawazish Ali, said. Local media channels said NAB arrested Zardari over its investigation into bank accounts and money laundering, with Zardari's sister, Faryal Talpur, also being investigated. The former president and Talpur could not be reached for comment but they have always denied any wrongdoing linked to those cases and the PPP says the cases are politically motivated. "Our right to fair trial is being undermined," Zardari's son, PPP leader Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, told a news conference, adding that the NAB officers arrived to arrest his father without any judicial orders. PPP officials say the cases against Zardari are meant to pile pressure on the party and help Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is seen to be favoured by the country's powerful military. Khan's other rival, ex-premier Nawaz Sharif, is also in jail on corruption charges. "The government has no role in (Zardari's arrest)," the interior minister, Ejaz Shah, told parliament, saying it was a court decision. "This is done by NAB. Our government has nothing to do with it." Zardari spent 11 years in jail on corruption and murder charges before becoming president in 2008. But he was never convicted and denies any wrongdoing. After his arrest on Monday, Zardari was seen leaving his house in Islamabad with his son. During Zardari's departure, PPP supporters chanted "Long live Bhutto", referring to the dynasty which produced three national leaders: party founder Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who served as prime minister and president before being toppled in a coup and executed in 1979, his daughter Benazir, and her husband. A former businessman and a polo-playing playboy in his younger days, Zardari swept to power in 2008 following a wave of sympathy following the killing of his wife, Benazir, a two-time premier, by Islamist militants in a suicide attack.

Former Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari arrested on corruption charges

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kathua-rape-and-murder-case-3-main-accused-sentenced-to-life-imprisonment-5-years-for-3-others-225975">Kathua rape and murder case: 3 main accused sentenced to life imprisonment; 5-year jail for others</a>

Three main accused in Kathua rape and murder case, who were convicted by the district court in Pathankot earlier today, have been sentenced to life imprisonment while three others have been given 5-year jail term.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pakistani-president-asif-ali-zardari-arrested-on-corruption-charges-225991">Former Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari arrested on corruption charges</a>

Former Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari was arrested on corruption charges on Monday, a Pakistani official said, in a blow to the opposition Pakistan People's Party.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-hold-bilateral-talks-with-putin-xi-on-sco-summit-sidelines-225982">PM Modi to hold bilateral talks with Putin, Xi on SCO Summit sidelines&nbsp;</a>

India will hold bilateral meetings with Russia and China on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit at Bishkek this week, the Ministry of External Affairs stated during a press briefing on Monday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-backs-hong-kong-extradition-law-opposes-foreign-interference-225947">China backs Hong Kong extradition law, opposes 'foreign interference'</a>

China on Monday strongly backed the Hong Kong government on a controversial bill that would allow extraditions to the mainland and voiced opposition to "outside interference" following a massive protest against the legislation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-records-all-time-high-of-48-degree-celsius-226013">Delhi records all-time high of 48 degree Celsius</a>

The mercury shattered all records in Delhi with parts of the national capital recording an all-time high of 48 degrees Celsius Monday.

The city's previous high of 47.8 degrees Celsius was recorded in Palam on June 9, 2014.

&nbsp;

Kathua rape and murder case: 3 main accused sentenced to life imprisonment; 5-year jail for others Three main accused in Kathua rape and murder case, who were convicted by the district court in Pathankot earlier today, have been sentenced to life imprisonment while three others have been given 5-year jail term.

Kathua rape and murder case: 3 main accused sentenced to life imprisonment; 5-year jail for others Three main accused in Kathua rape and murder case, who were convicted by the district court in Pathankot earlier today, have been sentenced to life imprisonment while three others have been given 5-year jail term. Former Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari arrested on corruption charges Former Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari was arrested on corruption charges on Monday, a Pakistani official said, in a blow to the opposition Pakistan People's Party. PM Modi to hold bilateral talks with Putin, Xi on SCO Summit sidelines India will hold bilateral meetings with Russia and China on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit at Bishkek this week, the Ministry of External Affairs stated during a press briefing on Monday. China backs Hong Kong extradition law, opposes 'foreign interference' China on Monday strongly backed the Hong Kong government on a controversial bill that would allow extraditions to the mainland and voiced opposition to "outside interference" following a massive protest against the legislation. Delhi records all-time high of 48 degree Celsius The mercury shattered all records in Delhi with parts of the national capital recording an all-time high of 48 degrees Celsius Monday. The city's previous high of 47.8 degrees Celsius was recorded in Palam on June 9, 2014.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Former Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has called for the immediate removal of Prime Minister Imran Khan to save the nation and end people's misery. 
 
If the prime minister was not removed soon, he will bring the nation to a point where "we too won`t be able to run the country", the former president said while addressing an Iftar gathering of party workers in Daulatpur on Tuesday. 
 
"I am not hungry for power, but the present government must be sent packing. Otherwise, the life of most people will become a misery," Zardari was quoted as saying by Dawn newspaper. 
 
He further said the Pakistan Peoples Party will release its manifesto after Eid and declare its plans that "will signal the beginning of the end".

Former Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has called for the immediate removal of Prime Minister Imran Khan to save the nation and end people's misery. If the prime minister was not removed soon, he will bring the nation to a point where "we too won`t be able to run the country", the former president said while addressing an Iftar gathering of party workers in Daulatpur on Tuesday.

Former Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has called for the immediate removal of Prime Minister Imran Khan to save the nation and end people's misery. If the prime minister was not removed soon, he will bring the nation to a point where "we too won`t be able to run the country", the former president said while addressing an Iftar gathering of party workers in Daulatpur on Tuesday. "I am not hungry for power, but the present government must be sent packing. Otherwise, the life of most people will become a misery," Zardari was quoted as saying by Dawn newspaper. He further said the Pakistan Peoples Party will release its manifesto after Eid and declare its plans that "will signal the beginning of the end".

Remove Imran Khan to save nation: Asif Ali Zardari

Former president and opposition Pakistan Peoples Party co-chairperson Asif Ali Zardari Thursday asked his supporters to "march towards Islamabad" and topple Prime Minister Imran Khan's government.

Addressing a rally at Garhi Khuda Baksh in Larkana on the 40th death anniversary of former prime minister and PPP founder Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, Zardari said it was time for the Khan's government to go.

"We cannot give them more time. We have to march towards Islamabad to oust the government to save this country," Zardari said.

He also accused the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government of trying to repeal the 18th Amendment, which took away powers from the President to dissolve an elected government and impose martial law.

"Before the elections, I told you that they want to repeal the 18th Amendment," Zardari said. "That's why they are lodging cases against us. At the time, some friends believed me and some people made fun."

"Now you have seen that the 'selected' prime minister's (bubble) has burst. He said he does not have funds. If you can't collect funds through the FBR (Federal Board of Revenue) then leave," he added.

Zardari, his son and PPP co-chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, and his other close associates and business partners are facing money laundering and corruption charges from the National Accountability Bureau and the arrest of the former president and other key figures appear likely.

Earlier in the day, the Islamabad High Court issued a notice to Zardari on a petition seeking his disqualification as a lawmaker for hiding assets worth over USD 1 million including a flat in New York and bulletproof vehicles in the election nomination papers last year.

The petition was filed by the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders Khurram Sher Zaman and Usman Dar.

Zardari told the crowd that Khan as prime minister has sent Pakistan 50 years back with his economic policies.

"They don't care about the poor. We can't give them more time, we have to march to Islamabad for the sake of the country," he added.

In his speech, Bilawal asked why justice for Bhutto's "judicial murder" has not been served despite four decades having passed by.

Bhutto, the father-in-law of Zardari and father of Pakistan's slain prime minister Benazir Bhutto, was hanged in jail on April 4, 1979, on court orders in a murder case.

"Today is the 40th year of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto's judicial murder," Bilawal said.

"This is a tragic chapter of history. This day is asking a question from this country: why was the protector of the poor public murdered? He opened the way for 90,000 prisoners to return home, he turned this country into an atomic power. Who signed his death warrant? That question is still awaiting an answer.

"The (former) president submitted a request eight years ago that we should get answers for the murder of our founder. Why do the scales of justice tip one side when it comes to us (Bhuttos)?" he asked.

Bilawal accused Khan and his ministers of becoming arrogant after coming into power.

He warned the government that if any attempt was made to repeal the 18th Amendment his party would end the government.

He also claimed that the prime minister didn't care about Sindh province, which is governed by the PPP.

"He only wants Sindh's resources and its gas. He wants to take away the rights of Sindh, steal KP's assets, and keep Balochistan deprived. Provincial governments make provincial decisions, and this is how nations are strengthened but this is beyond this puppet prime minister's understanding."

Bilawal said that the cases against him are based on "false allegations" and claimed that he has not been given a fair chance to present his answers in the court.

"I have not been able to record my statement before any court," he said.

"All I get are three minutes (to speak) before the court and then they say 'this is something we never heard'. I want to ask the honourable judges to summon old transcripts and recordings."&nbsp;

Former president and opposition Pakistan Peoples Party co-chairperson Asif Ali Zardari Thursday asked his supporters to "march towards Islamabad" and topple Prime Minister Imran Khan's government.

Former president and opposition Pakistan Peoples Party co-chairperson Asif Ali Zardari Thursday asked his supporters to "march towards Islamabad" and topple Prime Minister Imran Khan's government. Addressing a rally at Garhi Khuda Baksh in Larkana on the 40th death anniversary of former prime minister and PPP founder Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, Zardari said it was time for the Khan's government to go. "We cannot give them more time. We have to march towards Islamabad to oust the government to save this country," Zardari said. He also accused the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government of trying to repeal the 18th Amendment, which took away powers from the President to dissolve an elected government and impose martial law. "Before the elections, I told you that they want to repeal the 18th Amendment," Zardari said. "That's why they are lodging cases against us. At the time, some friends believed me and some people made fun." "Now you have seen that the 'selected' prime minister's (bubble) has burst. He said he does not have funds. If you can't collect funds through the FBR (Federal Board of Revenue) then leave," he added. Zardari, his son and PPP co-chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, and his other close associates and business partners are facing money laundering and corruption charges from the National Accountability Bureau and the arrest of the former president and other key figures appear likely. Earlier in the day, the Islamabad High Court issued a notice to Zardari on a petition seeking his disqualification as a lawmaker for hiding assets worth over USD 1 million including a flat in New York and bulletproof vehicles in the election nomination papers last year. The petition was filed by the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders Khurram Sher Zaman and Usman Dar. Zardari told the crowd that Khan as prime minister has sent Pakistan 50 years back with his economic policies. "They don't care about the poor. We can't give them more time, we have to march to Islamabad for the sake of the country," he added. In his speech, Bilawal asked why justice for Bhutto's "judicial murder" has not been served despite four decades having passed by. Bhutto, the father-in-law of Zardari and father of Pakistan's slain prime minister Benazir Bhutto, was hanged in jail on April 4, 1979, on court orders in a murder case. "Today is the 40th year of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto's judicial murder," Bilawal said. "This is a tragic chapter of history. This day is asking a question from this country: why was the protector of the poor public murdered? He opened the way for 90,000 prisoners to return home, he turned this country into an atomic power. Who signed his death warrant? That question is still awaiting an answer. "The (former) president submitted a request eight years ago that we should get answers for the murder of our founder. Why do the scales of justice tip one side when it comes to us (Bhuttos)?" he asked. Bilawal accused Khan and his ministers of becoming arrogant after coming into power. He warned the government that if any attempt was made to repeal the 18th Amendment his party would end the government. He also claimed that the prime minister didn't care about Sindh province, which is governed by the PPP. "He only wants Sindh's resources and its gas. He wants to take away the rights of Sindh, steal KP's assets, and keep Balochistan deprived. Provincial governments make provincial decisions, and this is how nations are strengthened but this is beyond this puppet prime minister's understanding." Bilawal said that the cases against him are based on "false allegations" and claimed that he has not been given a fair chance to present his answers in the court. "I have not been able to record my statement before any court," he said. "All I get are three minutes (to speak) before the court and then they say 'this is something we never heard'. I want to ask the honourable judges to summon old transcripts and recordings."

Zardari asks supporters to 'march towards Islamabad'; topple Imran Khan's government

Former Pakistan president Asif Ali Zardari has claimed that <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-sc-asks-imran-khan-government-to-lift-travel-ban-on-opposition-leaders-190949&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiO7sKt0_bfAhXLXSsKHa2nCRoQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw06uHT0FXyIfItwGXvT9pnu">Prime Minister Imran Khan</a>-led government will not be able to last the full term of five years.

Dubbing Khan as a selected prime minister, Zardari once again said that nobody accepted the results of the general elections and that the cricketer-turned-politician will not be able to complete the stipulated tenure, Geo News reported.

Zardari said that "the prime minister is not from the general public and he will not return to them."

"Now that you are a selected prime minister, learn something," he said.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan president Asif Ali Zardari has claimed that Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government will not be able to last the full term of five years. Dubbing Khan as a selected prime minister, Zardari once again said that nobody accepted the results of the general elections and that the cricketer-turned-politician will not be able to complete the stipulated tenure, Geo News reported.

Former Pakistan president Asif Ali Zardari has claimed that Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government will not be able to last the full term of five years. Dubbing Khan as a selected prime minister, Zardari once again said that nobody accepted the results of the general elections and that the cricketer-turned-politician will not be able to complete the stipulated tenure, Geo News reported. Zardari said that "the prime minister is not from the general public and he will not return to them." "Now that you are a selected prime minister, learn something," he said.

Imran Khan won't be able to complete 5-year term: Asif Ali Zardari

The Pakistan government has decided to continue the travel ban on former president Asif Ali Zardari, his son Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah among other Pakistan Peoples Party leaders, a top minister said.

The decision, which prevents them from flying abroad, was taken during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan Thursday, Dawn news reported.

On December 27, the Cabinet placed Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur on the Exit Control List (ECL) to prevent them from flying abroad after they were named in a Supreme Court-appointed joint investigative team probing fake bank accounts.

The JIT probe, constituted by the apex court on September 5, focused on "32 fake accounts" which were allegedly used to give massive financial benefits to Zardari, Talpur and several others.

However, the Supreme Court on December 31 expressed anger over the government's move placing the names of 172 suspects on the ECL and ordered it to review the decision. The Cabinet then sent the list to a review committee.

The review committee recommended the removal of 20 names from the ECL, including those of the PPP leaders.

The Supreme Court on Monday ordered the government to remove the names of PPP Chairman Bilawal and Sindh Chief Minister Shah from the ECL. It also ordered that the case be forwarded to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).

However, Prime Minister Khan and his team rejected the recommendations and decided that the names of the top leaders of the PPP would remain on the ECL, the Dawn news reported.

"The federal cabinet has decided not to remove names of Mr Bhutto-Zardari and Mr Shah from the ECL," Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry told reporters.

He said the names of the PPP leaders would remain on the ECL until a detailed written order of the Supreme Court was received.

"After going through the order, we will decide whether the names of the PPP leaders should be removed from the list or the government should file a review petition against the apex court's decision," Chaudhry said.

The minister said another committee has been constituted to review the travel ban on the 172 suspects. The committee will present its report to the Cabinet in its next meeting.

The names of the 172 suspects were placed on the ECL on the recommendations of a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) formed by the Supreme Court.

Meanwhile, the PPP termed the Cabinet's latest decision as a "dictatorial decision".

"The Cabinet decision has not only exposed the 'ugly' face of Imran Khan but the fact that dictatorship is prevailing in the country which does not even accept the decisions of the Supreme Court," PPP leader Nafisa Shah said.

She called on the apex court to take stern notice of the government's "rigidness" and alleged that the "puppet" government was "using accountability and the ECL as tools for arm-twisting of political opponents".&nbsp;

The Pakistan government has decided to continue the travel ban on former president Asif Ali Zardari, his son Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah among other Pakistan Peoples Party leaders, a top minister said.

The Pakistan government has decided to continue the travel ban on former president Asif Ali Zardari, his son Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah among other Pakistan Peoples Party leaders, a top minister said. The decision, which prevents them from flying abroad, was taken during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan Thursday, Dawn news reported. On December 27, the Cabinet placed Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur on the Exit Control List (ECL) to prevent them from flying abroad after they were named in a Supreme Court-appointed joint investigative team probing fake bank accounts. The JIT probe, constituted by the apex court on September 5, focused on "32 fake accounts" which were allegedly used to give massive financial benefits to Zardari, Talpur and several others. However, the Supreme Court on December 31 expressed anger over the government's move placing the names of 172 suspects on the ECL and ordered it to review the decision. The Cabinet then sent the list to a review committee. The review committee recommended the removal of 20 names from the ECL, including those of the PPP leaders. The Supreme Court on Monday ordered the government to remove the names of PPP Chairman Bilawal and Sindh Chief Minister Shah from the ECL. It also ordered that the case be forwarded to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). However, Prime Minister Khan and his team rejected the recommendations and decided that the names of the top leaders of the PPP would remain on the ECL, the Dawn news reported. "The federal cabinet has decided not to remove names of Mr Bhutto-Zardari and Mr Shah from the ECL," Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry told reporters. He said the names of the PPP leaders would remain on the ECL until a detailed written order of the Supreme Court was received. "After going through the order, we will decide whether the names of the PPP leaders should be removed from the list or the government should file a review petition against the apex court's decision," Chaudhry said. The minister said another committee has been constituted to review the travel ban on the 172 suspects. The committee will present its report to the Cabinet in its next meeting. The names of the 172 suspects were placed on the ECL on the recommendations of a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) formed by the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, the PPP termed the Cabinet's latest decision as a "dictatorial decision". "The Cabinet decision has not only exposed the 'ugly' face of Imran Khan but the fact that dictatorship is prevailing in the country which does not even accept the decisions of the Supreme Court," PPP leader Nafisa Shah said. She called on the apex court to take stern notice of the government's "rigidness" and alleged that the "puppet" government was "using accountability and the ECL as tools for arm-twisting of political opponents".

Foreign travel ban on ex-president Zardari, PPP leaders to continue: Pakistan

Pakistani authorities probing laundering of around Rs 220 billion through fictitious bank accounts recommended freezing all assets including the US and Dubai properties of former president Asif Ali Zardari and other individuals, media reports said.

The Joint Investigation Team (JIT) submitted a report to the Supreme Court Saturday, recommending freezing the famous Bilawal House in Karachi and Lahore, and Zardari House in Islamabad, Geo News reported.

It also sought freezing of Zardari's New York and Dubai properties along with all five plots of Bilawal House in Karachi.

The case against Zardari and other individuals pertains to laundering of around Rs 220 billion through fictitious bank accounts, the report said.

The investigation team recommended freezing all urban and agricultural lands owned by Zardari, his sister Faryal Talpur, and the Zardari Group.

Rejecting the allegations, Zardari and Talpur said the JIT report was based on speculation and targetted political victimisation.

The JIT also moved the Supreme Court to order the freezing of all assets of Omni Group, including sugar mills, agricultural companies and energy companies, the report said.

Accusing Zardari and Omni groups of irregularities in loans and government funds, the investigation team said both the groups transferred money out of the country through 'Hundi' and 'Hawala', the report said.

The JIT said the assets should remain frozen until a verdict is delivered in the case, expressing concern that these assets might be transferred out of the country.

Zardari established a 'benami' company through his front man Iqbal Memon, the team said, adding that the company was frozen in 1998.

Zardari's close aide Hussain Lawai was arrested in July 2018 in connection with the probe. His other close aide and Omni Group chairman Anwar Majeed and his son Abdul Ghani Majeed were arrested in August 2018.

Hundreds of 'benami' accounts at some private banks were opened in 2013, 2014 and 2015 from where transactions worth billions of rupees were made, according to the investigation.

The amount is said to be black money gathered from various kickbacks, commissions and bribes.

Pakistani authorities probing laundering of around Rs 220 billion through fictitious bank accounts recommended freezing all assets including the US and Dubai properties of former president Asif Ali Zardari and other individuals, media reports said.

Pakistani authorities probing laundering of around Rs 220 billion through fictitious bank accounts recommended freezing all assets including the US and Dubai properties of former president Asif Ali Zardari and other individuals, media reports said. The Joint Investigation Team (JIT) submitted a report to the Supreme Court Saturday, recommending freezing the famous Bilawal House in Karachi and Lahore, and Zardari House in Islamabad, Geo News reported. It also sought freezing of Zardari's New York and Dubai properties along with all five plots of Bilawal House in Karachi. The case against Zardari and other individuals pertains to laundering of around Rs 220 billion through fictitious bank accounts, the report said. The investigation team recommended freezing all urban and agricultural lands owned by Zardari, his sister Faryal Talpur, and the Zardari Group. Rejecting the allegations, Zardari and Talpur said the JIT report was based on speculation and targetted political victimisation. The JIT also moved the Supreme Court to order the freezing of all assets of Omni Group, including sugar mills, agricultural companies and energy companies, the report said. Accusing Zardari and Omni groups of irregularities in loans and government funds, the investigation team said both the groups transferred money out of the country through 'Hundi' and 'Hawala', the report said. The JIT said the assets should remain frozen until a verdict is delivered in the case, expressing concern that these assets might be transferred out of the country. Zardari established a 'benami' company through his front man Iqbal Memon, the team said, adding that the company was frozen in 1998. Zardari's close aide Hussain Lawai was arrested in July 2018 in connection with the probe. His other close aide and Omni Group chairman Anwar Majeed and his son Abdul Ghani Majeed were arrested in August 2018. Hundreds of 'benami' accounts at some private banks were opened in 2013, 2014 and 2015 from where transactions worth billions of rupees were made, according to the investigation. The amount is said to be black money gathered from various kickbacks, commissions and bribes.

Pak probe spells trouble for Zardari; urges freezing all assets for money laundering

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