Justice Kiani specifically highlighted the dismissal of over a hundred major corruption cases, a consequence of recent legislative adjustments
News Desk
ISLAMABAD: In a sharp and pointed critique of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kiani of the Islamabad High Court has delivered a scathing assessment of the anti-corruption body’s current effectiveness. During a recent hearing, Justice Kiani described NAB as a “toothless” institution, one that has been relegated to merely “enjoying” its existence in its present form. His remarks come amidst growing concerns over the state of accountability in Pakistan, particularly in light of recent legal changes that have severely hindered NAB’s ability to perform its duties.
Justice Kiani specifically highlighted the dismissal of over a hundred major corruption cases, a consequence of recent legislative adjustments. These changes have enabled many individuals accused of corruption to evade justice, with some fleeing the country to avoid prosecution. The judge’s concern was clear: the recent legal amendments have essentially allowed public funds to be misused without adequate scrutiny or recourse. He expressed dismay at the state of affairs, emphasizing that Parliament’s actions have significantly undermined the very framework designed to protect public resources and ensure transparency.
The Islamabad High Court judge did not hold back in questioning the capacity of NAB to carry out meaningful investigations under the current legal structure. He posed the critical question: Can NAB continue to pursue corruption cases effectively, or has it been rendered impotent by the current legal environment? His statements raised fundamental concerns about the effectiveness of the anti-corruption system in Pakistan, casting doubt on whether the system can handle the scale of corruption that continues to plague the country.
Justice Kiani’s remarks also serve as a call to action for a comprehensive review of the country’s anti-corruption laws. The judge’s critique reflects a growing sense of urgency within the judicial community regarding the need for significant reform. Without such reforms, the fear is that the fight against corruption will remain hampered, and the misuse of state resources will continue unchecked. His comments underscore the critical need for a reevaluation of the existing legal framework to strengthen anti-corruption efforts and restore the public’s confidence in the institutions tasked with holding the powerful accountable.
