Musharraf Too Sick for Treason Trial: Texas Doctor
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – A Texas doctor said Pakistan’s General Pervez Musharraf is suffering from an “alarming” heart condition, according to lawyers excusing the former military ruler’s latest no-show at a court to face treason charges.
The former dictator must be transferred to the United States for urgent treatment, according to a letter from cardiac specialist Arjumand Hashmi at the Paris Medical Center in Paris, Texas.
"The findings on his cardiac (scan) are alarming," wrote Hashmi, who has been treating Musharraf since 2006, the NBC reported.
The doctor’s letter was presented by Musharraf’s lawyer, Anwar Mansoor, to a Special Court that is considering treason charges against him. The ex-leader was summoned to appear last year but has failed to attend hearings four times, citing security or health concerns.
If he is eventually charged with “high treason” it would be a major setback for Pakistan's powerful army. If convicted, he could also be executed.
Musharraf was admitted to a military hospital two weeks ago. Hashmi’s letter states the diagnosis is based on “current reports” on Musharraf’s heart condition, but does not state when and where the tests were conducted.
"Based on the findings it is my professional opinion that he be transferred at the earliest to our medical facility for further diagnostic and therapeutic treatment," said the letter, dated Jan. 9.
The letter "does not hold any evidential value," according to prosecutors at the court. Pakistan-born Hashmi is also the mayor of Paris.
