No contempt proceedings against Gilani if Zardari's immunity is proved: Pak SC

Islamabad, Feb 1(ANI): The Pakistan Supreme Court said there is the need to initiate contempt proceedings against Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani if President Asif Ali Zardari's immunity is proved.

The observation came while the seven-member larger bench headed by Justice Nasir ul Mulk was hearing a contempt of court case against Gilani.

Justice Nasir, however, said the decision not to write the letter to Swiss authorities seeking re-opening of the alleged money laundering cases against Zardari was taken by Gilani himself.

He said that he should have written a letter to the Swiss authorities as per the court's orders, and later invoked the defence of presidential immunity, The Express Tribune reports.

Gilani's lawyer Aitzaz Ahsan said that he has to act on the advice of aides, as he could not read detailed verdicts of the court.

"Law Minister and Secretary advised the prime minister, The News quoted him,as saying.

He said the Pakistan President enjoys immunity both in and outside the country.

"My opinion was there is no issue in writing letter," Aitzaz added.

Gilani had earlier told the court that the president enjoys complete immunity, not only in Pakistan but also in the world as enunciated by the Constitution during the January 19 hearing. (ANI)