The government has launched a consultation process with the Opposition to frame a new accountability law as the existing National Accountability Ordinance (NAO) expires on Sunday, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

Prime Minister Imran Khan has formed a committee to work on enacting a new NAB law.

The committee includes Law Minister Farogh Naseem, Minister of Planning Asad Umar, Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, Adviser to PM for Parliamentary Affairs Babar Awan and Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Accountability Shehzad Akbar.

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The committee will meet at the residence of National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser today (Saturday).

It is pertinent to mention that the current NAB ordinance expires tomorrow (Sunday).

The National Accountability Ordinance (NAO) will become extinct Sunday as the amendments to the law made through a presidential ordinance have not been approved by the Parliament. A major challenge faced by the government because of the coronavirus pandemic is the parliamentary approval as both houses of parliament are in recess to ensure social distancing.

The National Accountability (Second Amendment) Ordinance, 2019, was promulgated in end-December having the usual 120-day constitutional life.

Saaf Pani case

An accountability court in Lahore deferred its verdict on pleas of the release of all accused in Saaf Pani Company case.

The court gave the decision upon the request of NAB prosecutor.

According to NAB, they are filing a final reference regarding Saaf Pani Company case. Upon accepting the request from NAB, the court has adjourned the hearing till May 28.