Panama Leaks investigation: Govt writes letter to Chief Justice
Commission will decide on its own regarding the total duration needed to complete the investigation
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – Ministry of Law issued a Statutory Regulatory Order (SRO) in regards to the investigation of the Panama Leaks, off-shore companies, waving off of taxes on the basis of political affiliations and the formation of a commission to probe into these issues, reported Dunya News.
Based on the Inquiry Act 1965, the three-member commission will have the authority to summon any individual to conduct investigation and will have access to public records in this regards as well.
According to the rules of procedure, the investigation commission will probe into the involvement of Pakistanis’ involvement in off-shore companies of any country. The commission will also conduct investigation regarding the waving off of bank loans, corruption or sending of money obtained through bribery outside the country from the current or former public representatives or any members of their families.
The commission will also take into its consideration the formation of off-shore companies or waving off of loans through illegal procedures; if illegitimacy is proven then the commission will determine the perpetrators and will suggest suitable action to be taken against them.
According to article-4 of the Act, the commission will have the authority to summon any individual, tax expert or accountant and record their statement. Furthermore, it can also obtain any important documents, sworn testimonies or any public records from any court(s).
The commission can summon any privileged individual. The officer delegated by the commission will have the authority to obtain documents or evidences from any site or building whereas the commission’s proceedings will have legal status. All federal and provincial institutions will be liable to support the commission in its investigation.
Cantonment section has been declared as the secretariat of the commission. It will have the authority to decide the time period needed for completing the investigation and will present its report of findings to the federal government.
