PA passes resolution against NAB’s ‘plea-bargain’ clause

PA passes resolution against NAB’s ‘plea-bargain’ clause

Lahore (Staff Report): The Punjab Assembly on Wednesday passed a resolution against the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), demanding to repeal the plea bargain law.

The resolution, presented by Law Minister Rana Sanaullah and passed with a majority, calls for ending the ‘plea-bargain’ clause in the NAB Ordinance. The resolution said that the accountability bureau is violating basic human rights.

“NAB not only arrested, harassed a senior government official but is also involved in character assassination. NAB law contradicts human rights and dignity,” the resolution read.

NAB’s ‘plea-bargain’ clause allows accused persons to accept their guilt and return some of the plundered wealth in exchange for a light punishment.

NAB in its most recent crackdown investigated Punjab Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif over the accusations of corruption in Ashiyana Housing Scheme. Former DG Lahore Development Authority Ahad Cheema and contractor Shahid Shafiq were also arrested in the case.

Opposition parties staged a walked out of the session after which the government assembly members approved it in absence of opposition.