FPCCI chief criticises NAB for 'harassing', 'arresting' businesspeople

KARACHI: Mian Nasser Hyatt Maggo, President FPCCI, has said that harassment, bullying and corruption must end and due course of law must be followed in letter and spirit - as, these practices cannot co-exist with business and economic growth.

Criticizing harassment and arrest of a businessman by NAB in the premises of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, he added that the government officials have repeatedly assured FPCCI that businessmen will be treated with dignity and will be given due respect as per basic human rights inculcated in the Constitution of Pakistan.

Mian Nasser Hyatt Maggo reiterated that it was decided between FPCCI and the government that NAB will not take up business and industry cases as there are other dedicated legal and constitutional forums available for them. However, the NAB continues to meddle into the cases of business and industry.

Mian Nasser also thanked the honourable Acting Chief Justice of Pakistan for taking note of the situation and asking for an explanation from NAB officials that why the arrest was necessary; while the accused Saif-Ur-Rehman was appearing in the court for the proceedings of a pre-arrest bail.

He said that he has full confidence and faith in the judicial system of Pakistan and he does not in any way whatsoever support any corrupt practices in the business community; but, he is a firm believer in the basic legal principle that everyone is innocent until proven guilty.

He emphasized that, in essence, businesses run any economy through paying taxes and generating employment and, businessmen are treated with respect and honour in all civilized societies.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2021