An order is an order
The NICL case has brought the government and the SC in a state of confrontation. The case has political ramifications as one of those nominated in the scam is an important PML(Q) figure and the ruling coalition depends on the PML(Q)’s support to maintain majority in the NA. The case was being probed by Addl. DG FIA Zafar Qureshi on the directive of the SC when the PPP entered into negotiations with the PML(Q). It was around this period that Qureshi was suddenly transferred. This was seen by many as a move to broker a deal with the PML(Q). The argument that since the investigation officer had completed the initial work, he was no more required to continue to be associated with the case was questioned by important lawyers and former judges who maintained that the task of the investigation officer was yet not completed.
Four other FIA officials helping Qureshi were meanwhile transferred to far off stations, creating a perception that they were being punished for successfully pursuing the investigation. The SC was dissatisfied with the removal of the official and ordered his reinstatement. However soon after the reinstatement, Qureshi was suspended under Government Servants Efficiency and Discipline rules for giving a television interview. The apex court again ordered his reinstatement suspending all notices against him. The government has continued to delay the implementation of the order.
There is a need on the part of the political parties to realise that things have changed a lot in the presence of an independent and assertive judiciary. The reports about lawmakers, across political affiliation, continuing to violate laws indicate the realisation has yet to come. Qureshi is reported to have named a number of influential government leaders being opposed to an honest probe of the scam. Delay in the implementation of the apex court’s orders would strengthen the perception that there is more to the affair than meets the eye.
It is for the government to persuade its allies that an impasse between the executive and SC does not bode well for the system. There are already moves afoot to make the issue of corruption the main plank in the next elections. It could cost the government a lot if it is seen to be blocking an independent investigation of NICL scam.
