fcc refuses halt
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FCC refuses to halt inquiry against former NAB DG

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) has declined to suspend inquiry proceedings against former National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Director General Saleem Shehzad, allowing an investigation into his alleged unlawful appointment and promotion to continue.

The decision came during a hearing of an appeal filed by Shehzad challenging a show-cause notice issued against him. He had requested the court to stay the inquiry until the case was decided, but the bench refused to grant interim relief.

A two-member bench headed by Justice Hassan Azhar Rizvi heard the appeal and directed the federal government to submit its response within three weeks before further proceedings.

The case revolves around allegations that Saleem Shehzad’s appointment and subsequent promotion within the National Accountability Bureau were made in violation of applicable rules and procedures. Authorities had earlier issued him a show-cause notice seeking an explanation over the alleged irregularities.

Former National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Director General Saleem Shehzad

Before approaching the Federal Constitutional Court, Shehzad had challenged the notice in the Islamabad High Court. However, after his petition was dismissed, he filed an appeal before the FCC, seeking legal protection against the inquiry.

During the hearing, the court did not interfere with the ongoing investigation, effectively allowing the relevant authorities to continue examining the allegations while the constitutional appeal remains pending.

Legal experts say the ruling does not determine Shehzad’s guilt or innocence but indicates the court’s reluctance to halt administrative proceedings before hearing the case in detail. The federal government’s reply is expected to play an important role in the next stage of the proceedings.

The case has attracted attention because it involves the appointment of a senior official in Pakistan’s top anti-corruption watchdog. Any findings from the inquiry could have broader implications for accountability, transparency and the process of appointments in public institutions.

With the inquiry set to continue and the government directed to file its response within three weeks, the Federal Constitutional Court is expected to take up the matter again after reviewing the submissions of both sides. The outcome could shape the future course of the legal challenge brought by the former NAB official.

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