The Papers

This refers to the article, ‘The Papers’ (April 10) by Dr Farrukh Saleem. The writer has ably explained in simple words nearly all there is to know about offshore companies. Additionally, the writer has emphasised that anything short of the World Bank’s STAR initiative (Stolen Assets Recovery Initiative) will not work, meaning exercises like an inquiry commission and forensic audit will just be delaying tactics, perhaps to divert people’s minds until some other issue could be found to opiate them.

With guilt/deceit already established, all that remains is meting out punishment and embark on a recovery initiative. However, it is doubtful if the masses will stand up – like those in Iceland – and ensure the needful be done.

S R H Hashmi

Karachi