Farhatullah Babar appears before FIA in ‘corruption’ probe

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has summoned veteran politician and prominent Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Farhatullah Babar as part of an ongoing inquiry initiated by a citizen’s complaint, agency sources confirmed on Wednesday.

The FIA issued a formal notice to Babar on March 28, directing him to join the investigation. According to the notice, the complaint accuses the seasoned PPP leader of tax evasion and corruption.

In his written response to the FIA, Babar—a widely respected figure in Pakistani politics—has demanded access to the complete record of the complaint, including the specific allegations against him.

Sources close to Babar revealed that in his communication with the agency, he pointed out that the initial notice lacked critical details, such as a clear list of accusations or supporting evidence.

Despite this, in a show of cooperation, Babar appeared before the FIA as directed. During the session, he was reportedly asked to submit detailed records of his taxes, income and assets.

Babar, also a prominent human rights activist, further asserted his right to review the asset declarations and all foundational documents cited in the complaint. Noting his prolonged absence from public office, he also sought clarification from the FIA on which specific official position he is accused of misusing.

Expressing concerns over the inquiry’s conduct, Babar stated that the handling of the case raises serious questions about its fairness and justification. He has formally requested the FIA to drop what he deems an unfounded investigation.

The development drew significant attention from political circles, the media and rights bodies.

The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has strongly criticised the FIA inquiry against Farhatullah Babar, president of the PPP’s Human Rights Cell, calling the allegations against him baseless and politically motivated.

PFUJ President Afzal Butt and Secretary General Arshad Ansari condemned the probe as a clear act of intimidation against Babar, a steadfast advocate for human rights, press freedom, and free expression. The union has raised serious concerns over the legitimacy of the complaint and the FIA’s decision to pursue the case.

“The union sees this as a direct attack on Babar’s advocacy work and a potential threat to freedom of expression in the country.”

The union suspects selective targeting, given Babar’s high-profile advocacy and outspoken stance on rights issues.

Demanding an immediate end to the investigation, the PFUJ warned against the harassment of journalists and activists. “We stand firmly with Farhatullah Babar and reaffirm our commitment to defending human rights and free speech in Pakistan,” the statement added.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) also strongly condemns the FIA inquiry against human rights defender Farhatullah Babar.

“Based on a private citizen’s complaint, the timing of this probe raises serious doubts as to its legitimacy, given that Babar - who has been the driving force behind some of Pakistan’s most progressive legislation and also serves on HRCP’s governing council - has long been a vocal critic of state policies and institutions. This is yet another example of the state weaponising legal machinery to silence dissent and harass those who speak up,” a statement said.

The HRCP said it was also a dangerous precedent, especially when the individual in question had contributed significantly to Pakistan’s democratic and human rights causes.

“HRCP stands in solidarity with Babar and demands that the inquiry be withdrawn and Babar be issued a public apology by the state,” the statement read.