ISLAMABAD - Exiled former Pakistan military leader Pervez Musharraf was sentenced to death Tuesday after being found guilty of treason, an unprecedented move in a country where the armed forces are often considered immune from prosecution.
The court's decision marks the first time a former leader of the armed forces has been sentenced to death in Pakistan, where the military maintains a firm grip on power and has ruled the country for roughly half its 72-year history.
Musharraf has been in self-imposed exile ever since a travel ban was lifted in 2016 that allowed him to seek medical treatment abroad.
The 76-year-old has lately spent most of his time between Dubai and London.
Several Pakistan media sources reported the verdict and sentence, while a senior court official confirmed the rulings to AFP.
Tuesday's ruling is the latest court decision to target Musharraf while he has been in exile.
In 2017, a Pakistani court pronounced him a fugitive in the murder trial of Bhutto -- the first woman prime minister of a Muslim country.
The anti-terrorism court also branded Musharraf an absconder and ordered the confiscation of his property.
Musharraf is alleged to have been part of a broad conspiracy to have Bhutto killed before elections. He has denied all charges.
Following the court's decision Tuesday, Bhutto’s son Bilawal Bhutto Zardari tweeted: "Democracy is the best revenge". (AFP)