ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday extended the protective bail of former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and ex-secretary petroleum Arshad Mirza for three more weeks till May 27, in a reference pertaining to illegal appointment of managing director Pakistan State Oil (PSO). The petitioners pleaded that the court had earlier granted them protective bail till May 12, but they could not approach the trial court in Karachi due to lockdown across the country. The petitioners prayed the court to extend their protective bail till their appearance before accountability court in Karachi. On the query of the bench, Abbasi’s lawyer contended that his client did not appear before the trial court, however, his counsel attended the proceeding. The court directed the accused to approach the relevant court during the time.

Source: Pakistan Today May 05, 2020 12:45 UTC