Governor praises reforms in NAB’s anti-corruption drive

LAHORE:Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider on Wednesday held a meeting with National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Deputy Chairman Sohail Nasir and Lahore NAB Director General Amjad Majeed Aulakh at the governor's office.

The governor appreciated the chairman’s vision for reforms, emphasising that eradicating corruption and ensuring rule of law are crucial for Pakistan's development. The deputy chairman NAB assured that NAB will protect respondents' dignity and prevent any exploitation. On the occasion, the deputy chairman briefed the governor on the mandate and functioning of Accountability Facilitation Centre (AFC), which will scrutinise complaints against provincial assembly members.

He said AFC will operate under the Punjab Assembly Speaker’s supervision, headed by a grade-20 officer duly appointed by Speaker. He assured that NAB will not directly entertain complaints against members of MPAs, instead, AFC will refer them after initial investigation.

Deputy Chairman announced plans to expand AFC's scope to various Chambers of Commerce and Industries. He also informed that the Business Facilitation Cells have already been established at all regional NAB offices to address business community concerns. Sohail Nasir said NAB will not entertain any anonymous or pseudonymous complaints against the assembly members.

Action will be taken against individuals filing false complaints. The governor praised the chairman’s positive initiatives and assured full cooperation from the governor's office. The deputy chairman also presented the draft of AFC to worthy the governor, however, the meeting concluded with the exchange of shields between the DG and the governor.