FIA Launches Inquiry into Toshakhana Case Against Zardari, Nawaz, and Gilani
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has officially begun an inquiry into the Toshakhana case involving President Asif Ali Zardari, PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif, and former Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani.
A joint investigation team (JIT) handling the case has requested records and evidence from the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) related to the Toshakhana case, including details on the accused individuals. Based on the provided materials, the team will prepare a supplementary challan to proceed with the investigation.
After receiving the required documents from NAB, the JIT plans to record statements from all the accused.
Previously, President Zardari had been granted presidential immunity in both the Park Lane and Toshakhana cases. The Accountability Court, citing Article 248 of the Constitution, halted proceedings against him, ruling that no criminal cases or actions could be initiated against a sitting president.
Judge Nasir Javed delivered the verdict, emphasizing that Article 248 shields the President from prosecution during their term in office. The court noted that the prosecution did not object to Zardari’s plea for immunity, and no opposition was raised during the hearing.
As a result, the references against Zardari remain on hold as long as he retains the presidency.
The NAB had previously filed a reference in an accountability court against Zardari, Sharif, and Gilani, accusing them of failing to deposit luxury vehicles and valuable gifts received from foreign leaders into the national treasury, as required by law.
