ACE DG powers restored as ordinance lapses

LAHORE: The powers of DG Anti-Corruption (ACE) in Punjab have been restored after the ordinance issued for 90 days to limit the ACE powers lapsed on Thursday.

Sources said the elected cabinet may reconsider the proposal for approval and place the ordinance before the assembly. The governor had signed the ordinance limiting the powers of ACE Director General. The ordinance expired on February 28 after remaining in force for 90 days. The Department of Law and Parliamentary Affairs had issued the notification on December 1, 2023.

Sources said under Article 128 of the Constitution, promulgation of ordinances is a function of the legislature, which has been delegated to the executive. Ordinances are promulgated in exceptional circumstances when the assembly is not in session.

Amendments were made to sections 2, 3 and 4 of the Anti-Corruption Establishment Ordinance 1961. Under these amendments, ACE authorities, on receipt of information or complaint against an officer under Section 3A, will conduct a preliminary investigation to ascertain identity of the person providing information and veracity of allegations.

After preliminary investigation, Director General ACE will decide whether a criminal case under Section 3B is made or not.