Opposition sought NRO for supporting legislation, says PM

Imran describes FATF-related legislation as a national duty

ISLAMABAD:

Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Friday that the opposition had tried to seek NRO from the government under the guise of supporting the treasury’s legislation in parliament.

Addressing a meeting of the party spokespersons, which was also attended by some key ministers, the prime minister said that those rejected by the people of Pakistan in the 2018 general elections were trying to hide their theft.

NRO refers to the now-defunct National Reconciliation Ordinance which was issued by former military ruler Pervez Musharraf to grant amnesty to politicians in 2007. Recently, the parliament gave approval to several bills related to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) action plan for the country.

Imran said that the opposition gave in writing their demand for an NRO. “Those who have been rejected by the nation are trying to cover up for their theft,” the prime minister told the meeting. He added that the government considered FATF-related legislation as a national duty.

The meeting deliberated on the government’s stance and narrative on the latest political and economic situation in the country. Adviser on Parliamentary Affairs Dr Babar Awan briefed the participants on the negotiations with the opposition for the approval of the laws.

The prime minister said that the government faced difficulties and challenges during the first two years in office. “Now the government’s focus is on reviving the economy,” he added.