During the hearing of a constitutional petition against the “NAB Ordinance Implementation Act 2022” at the Supreme Court of Islamabad, Chief Justice Omar Ata Bandial raised critical concerns. He highlighted the potential repercussions of improperly executed amendments within the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) laws. He emphasized that after the enforcement of the new law, numerous cases of unwarranted dismissals are expected to be revisited by accountability courts.
Chief Justice Bandial indicated that while certain amendments in the NAB laws might have been implemented with astuteness, the overall legislation raises significant difficulties. The attempt to prove the cessation or transformation of many crimes within the framework of the amended laws has become exceedingly challenging. The new amendments, he added, contain various loopholes, and their application has not been executed accurately. The implementation of these laws has, in fact, undermined the credibility of Pakistan’s Chief Justice, metaphorically rendering him a “rubber stamp.”
The Chief Justice urged for a comprehensive list detailing who has benefitted from the new NAB laws and how many cases have been reconsidered by accountability courts. He emphasized that the NAB should compile and provide an updated list. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of preventing the political exploitation of the NAB for personal gains. He underscored the need to focus on determining the true targets of NAB amendments.
Chief Justice Bandial’s concerns reflect his commitment to ensuring that no crime goes unpunished and that the amendments in the NAB laws do not inadvertently open doors to any wrongful practices. The judiciary seeks to maintain its vigilant stance against any potential misuse of legislative changes. The core focus remains on upholding the rule of law and preserving the integrity of the legal system.
In essence, the Chief Justice’s remarks during the hearing shed light on the intricate balance between law reform and the potential for misuse. The cautionary approach aims to safeguard the essence of justice and accountability while preventing any manipulation for personal or political gains. The court’s commitment to thorough evaluation and its insistence on proper execution underscore its dedication to upholding justice and ensuring that no aspect of lawmaking is haphazardly approached.
