The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader, Malik Ahmed Khan, currently visiting London, has expressed criticism towards the Supreme Court’s decision regarding the amendments made to the National Accountability Ordinance. Khan referred to the law as “destructive for Pakistan”.
During his stay at The Churchill hotel in central London, Khan clarified that he had no meeting with interim Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar, who is also accommodated at the same hotel. Despite their personal relationship, Khan emphasized the importance of maintaining neutrality due to Kakar’s position as the caretaker prime minister.
Khan has recently engaged in discussions with high-ranking officials of the PML-N, including party leaders Nawaz Sharif and Shehbaz Sharif. The latest meeting revolved around the Supreme Court’s decision on the NAB law amendments.
According to Khan, the previous meeting highlighted that the SC’s decision negatively affects not only political parties but the entire nation. He expressed concerns over the impact of the NAB law, stating that it has created a sense of fear and unease among civil servants and businessmen, hindering their ability to make decisions and investments. Khan firmly believes that the law is oppressive and has consistently held this position.
Khan mentioned that he raised this issue in 2017 when Shahid Khaqan Abbasi was prime minister, proposing a parliamentary discussion on the law’s amendments. He further discussed the matter with Shehbaz Sharif, making a similar request.
While acknowledging the importance of accountability, Khan questioned whether the NAB laws could be applied fairly against the PML-N, emphasizing that they have always been cooperative in matters of accountability. He refused to engage in a “tit for tat” argument.
Regarding the speculations surrounding Shehbaz Sharif’s hurried return to Pakistan, Khan attributed it to the Supreme Court’s recent decision. Shehbaz returned to discuss the potential implications and any possible references that may arise from the decision.
When asked about his agreement with PPP leader Asif Ali Zardari’s critique of the NAB law, Khan expressed his support, stating that he is convinced of its destructive nature for the country.