Musharraf leaves for treatment abroad despite treason charge

Former Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf speaks during a press conference in Karachi, Pakistan, in March 2013. Musharraf, who faces trials for treason and murder, has left Pakistan for treatment in Dubai, according to his aide. AP

ISLAMABAD—Pakistan’s former military ruler Pervez Musharraf, who faces trials for treason and murder, has left Pakistan for treatment abroad.

Musharraf’s aide Dr. Mohammad Amjad says Musharraf departed for Dubai early Friday from Karachi.

Earlier this week, the Supreme Court lifted a travel ban; Musharraf had pledged to return after treatment for a back injury.

A former military chief, Musharraf, 72, took power in a 1999 bloodless coup, dismissing Nawaz Sharif’s government. He stepped down in 2008 under threat of potential impeachment and left Pakistan.

Musharraf returned in March 2013, hoping for a political comeback, but instead became embroiled in multiple court cases.

He has been charged with treason for suspending the constitution in 2007 and with involvement in the 2007 assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.