Islamabad, Apr. 9 (ANI): Pakistan”s powerful security establishment had reportedly advised former president and military ruler Pervez Musharraf not to return to the country, just days before he ended his four-year self-imposed exile, according to an official. The Express Tribune quoted the official as saying that no one wanted Musharraf to come back to Pakistan. The primary reason that the military opposed his return was threats to his life, the source said, adding that the army also feared that his homecoming could lead to other political controversies. The source disclosed that there was consensus among all stakeholders – including the civil and military establishment – that Musharraf should not have returned to Pakistan at this stage. Musharraf, however, defied the military”s advice and went ahead with his plan. The army”s opposition stemmed from fears that the legal challenges Musharraf is facing may open a Pandora”s box. The Supreme Court has already taken up a petition seeking Musharraf”s trial on treason charges for imposing emergency rule and arresting top judges in 2007. According to Justice (retd) Tariq Mehmood, the case is likely to spark several legal controversies if he opts to defend himself. (ANI)
