An attempt has been made to scuttle a constitutional forum established for accountability.
ISLAMABAD: Like in other civilised countries, Pakistan’s 1973 Constitution provides for financial accountability of public funds. For this purpose, it has created the office of the auditor-general of Pakistan (AGP). The AGP was given powers and protection of tenure, so that he can perform his functions and responsibilities, without fear or favour. Reliance can be placed on Articles 168(5), 250(3) and 264 (c) of the Constitution.
Premature removal of Tanwir Ali Agha under the pretext of the 18th Amendment was clearly in blatant violation of Articles 168(5), 250(3) and 264 (c) of the Constitution. In this view of the matter, it can be said that Tanwir Ali Agha continues to be the de jure AGP. His premature and unconstitutional removal seems to be mala fide because the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) was now poised to take up audit reports relating to the present government. Members of the PAC are on record stating that the AGP had performed his duties and audit functions honestly and professionally.
An attempt has been made to scuttle a constitutional forum established for accountability. Before administering oath to the appointed AGP, the apex court, in its primary role of protector of the Constitution, still has time to take notice of the violations of the provisions of the Constitution, relating to the removal of Mr Agha and the mala fide appointment of his successor.
Syed Bilal Ahmed
Former federal secretary
Published in The Express Tribune, August 27th, 2011.
