PAKISTAN- Lawyers for former Pakistani military ruler Pervez Musharraf have failed to delay a special court due to try him for treason. Islamabad High Court dismissed their plea that only a military court could examine his actions.

Mr Musharraf, currently on bail in several other cases, is due to appear before the special court on Tuesday.

He also faces separate charges of murder and restricting the judiciary, all of which he denies.

The treason charge relates to his decision in 2007 to suspend the constitution and impose emergency rule.

Mr Musharraf’s lawyers had argued – unsuccessfully – that as he was the army chief in 2007, only a military court could examine his actions.

The high court also dismissed objections over the appointment of judges and prosecutor.

Correspondents say it will be the first time in Pakistan’s history that a former military ruler will face a treason trial.

On his return in March he hoped he could lead his party into elections, but was disqualified from standing and found himself fighting an array of charges relating to his time in power.

Speaking publicly last week for the first time since he was put under house arrest, he defended his actions during his nine-year rule.

“Whatever I did was for the betterment and welfare of Pakistan and its people, I will face all cases… I will not run away.” he told.

He insists all the accusations against him are politically motivated.