Articles of the year 2021

The Supreme Court of Pakistan is a collection of the most experienced members of the judicial system. They receive an education in the theory and history of law, to a high level and after passing extensive tests are qualified to serve as lawyers. The very best are taken on the bench, becoming part of the judiciary. After many years on the bench if their performance so merits do they get elevated to the Provincial High Court.

After distinguishing themselves, the brightest and more competent make it to the Supreme Court. The name itself is the validation of the strenuous and exacting paths to this exalted position. The position is without question of any quality other than merit. Lately, the appointment of some retired CJs of the Supreme Court is questionable, as these are positions of great importance and expertise beyond the legal background. The one position that has been selected for the appointment of men of such high qualification and integrity is Chairman NAB.

This position comes at a time when the performance of these departments is at the lowest possible success in conviction. Does it mean that the most corrupt era in our history is now populated by criminals of such high quality that the NAB have not managed a conviction ? An incredible dismal performance shows incompetence or corruption. This department is entrusted with the prosecution of political corruption which is at the highest level and has brought Pakistan to near collapse and yet in the last three years there has been no conviction. The Chairman has allowed the crooked enemies of the state to escape the jail sentences they are enjoying - illicit freedom, flouting the laws of the land - laws that the chairman have spent a lifetime enforcing.

In their three years not one conviction. The crowning glory is that as the retirement of the current Chairman draws near an extension is being sought for the current Chairman. How is it possible to grant an extension to a Chairman under whom the conviction rate is zero ? This failure of the current Chairman should validate his vilification and sentence to prison for abject failure in his duty. This is a cruel joke being played upon the country. Not one conviction. This Chairman should be jailed instead. Imran khan must take immediate action rather than examine the finer points of succession. This Chairman should be sent on forced leave if he cannot be sacked for non performance. The NAB claim of financial recoveries is a smoke screen which can be seen as a book entry, or creative accounting at best.

The figures are fictitious and are not reflected by any discomfort shown by Nawaz or Zardari. The figures claimed are a pathetic attempt by NAB to show recoveries which are non existent. This Chairman by his abysmal performance surrendered the right to continue let alone secure an extension. On the other hand, his performance has underscored the success of the corrupt mafia in the lack of conviction and is the basis of their cry of innocence. This is proof of the current Chairman’s complicity and the corrupt practices of the mafia. The performance of this Chairman of zero convictions is proof of his incompetence and complicit behavior. Punishment is due him and he should be jailed for life.