An analysis of Pakistan’s accountability law after June 2022 amendments: implications and effectiveness of anti-corruption campaign-Reference-Cited by-同舟云学术

An analysis of Pakistan’s accountability law after June 2022 amendments: implications and effectiveness of anti-corruption campaign

Published:2022-11-09 Issue: Volume: Page:
ISSN:1359-0790
Container-title:Journal of Financial Crime
language:en
Short-container-title:JFC

Author:

Korejo Muhammad Saleem,Korejo Erum Naseer,Rajamanickam Ramalinggam,Md. Said Muhamad Helmi,Ullah Nazir

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to provide an analysis of National Accountability Ordinance 1999 (NAO) after June 2022 amendments. It raises a key question whether the new legislation is effective and improves anti-corruption operating system in Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach This paper performs an analysis of recent amendments incorporated in NAO from the observations of superior courts, United Nations Corruption Convention and Financial Action Task Force (FATF) guidelines and also evaluates new legislation in terms of effectiveness in anti-corruption campaign. Findings This paper finds that ample amendments are inessential, and thus may largely jeopardize accountability process; changes appear to be intentionally crafted to benefit some selected group of people: the definition of asset is compressed; the onus of proof is shifted on the informer; and provisions of money trail, foreign evidence and protection of approver are abolished; such changes defy to the UN Corruption Convention and FATF guidelines. A legislation endorsed from all stakeholders is suggested; additionally, improved strategies proposed to strengthen accountability process while keeping in view the constitutional issues relevant in the course of anti-corruption investigations. Originality/value This paper is unique in the context of the anti-corruption strategies in Pakistan, highlighting the legal laxness of new government regarding corruption and money laundering.

Publisher

Emerald

Subject

Law,General Economics, Econometrics and Finance

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