Islamabad: National Accountability Bureau clarified that an inquiry launched against caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar in connection with assets was closed on “Merit” after thorough investigation into allegations.

Clarification came hours after three-member bench of Supreme Court in majority 2-1 verdict ordered to restoration of graft cases against public office holders that were withdrawn after amendments were made to NAB laws.

According to NAB authorities, charges against incumbent interim premier could not be proved as no concrete evidence came on record during inquiry. “Complaint against caretaker PM had nothing to do with NAB amendments,” officials said.

NAB sources said that anti-graft watchdog had launched an inquiry against PM Kakar in connection with his assets in Quetta but allegations could not be proved and subsequently, inquiry was dropped on “Merit”.

Well-placed sources said that “Matter” had been cleared before he was named as caretaker Prime Minister.

Verdict has some far-reaching consequences as striking down of amendments would mean that references against some of country’s political bigwigs will once again land in accountability courts.

Published in The Daily National Courier, September, 16 2023

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