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Contempt case
Gilani to be in court today as SC announces verdict
Afzal Khan in Islamabad

As Pakistan waits with baited breath for the Supreme Court's judgment in a contempt case against embattled Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani that could see him jailed or thrown out of office, the latter on Wednesday said he would be present in the court when it will announce its verdict tomorrow.

Gilani has been indicted for refusing to implement the court orders, which wants him to write a letter to Swiss authorities for reopening a money-laundering case against President Asif Ali Zardari.

“I have been summoned by the court for the third time in recent months,” Gilani told the Federal Cabinet, adding that he has decided to respond because he has always held the judiciary in high esteem.

Gilani’s legal team would be present by his side. Cabinet members have expressed solidarity with the Prime Minister and decided to accompany him to court.

The case files

• Gilani has been indicted for refusing to implement court orders telling him to write to the Swiss authorities to reopen a money-laundering case against President Asif Ali Zardari
• He has refused to act, saying the President enjoys immunity within Pakistan and abroad
• If convicted, Gilani, 56, could face a six-month prison term and disqualification