A disturbing aspect of the report the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) probing corruption allegations against the Prime Minister and his family submitted before a Supreme Court bench is that both government institutions and the investigators seem to be trying to preempt one another. It was supposed to be a confidential report but within no time was 'leaked' by unknown persons to go viral in partisan discussions on the social media as well as TV talk shows. In it the JIT blamed the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), National Accountability Bureau (NAB), the law ministry, and the Intelligence Bureau (IB) for "creating impediments in the collection of evidence" and also for being guilty of forgery and tampering with relevant documents. The report quoted specific examples of obstruction of access to record as well as harassment of its members' families and witnesses by the IB. Troubling as these accusations are, they do not seem to be without a basis considering that when summoned last September by the National Assembly's Public Accounts Committee heads of five agencies, the SBP, FBR, SECP, NAB and FIA, had refused to cooperate with the committee. Which was sad but not surprising since they are all under firm government control. The court, surely, has the authority and the power to get things done.

There are other elements in the report that do not reflect positively on the JIT itself. For instance, a close associate of the Prime Minister and CEO of the Itefaq Group is alleged to have asked Tariq Shafi, PM's cousin, to come to the PM House ahead of appearing before the JIT. The purpose is to prove that witnesses, as alleged, were being tutored by the defence, which is also accused of misusing its position to leak confidential letters. Then there is an extensive account of the media commentary critical of the JIT. Who did it and with what intention raises worrisome questions. The JIT needs to come up with answers, and also if any of this falls within its legal prerogative. As it is, civilian members of the team have no resources to intercept communication, keep various people under surveillance, or monitor the media. It is of course for the court to examine the JIT report and take all necessary measures to ensure no part of the case proceedings become contentious. The JIT must remain focused on its main job, avoiding any misstep that creates any doubts.

Although government spokesmen have been creating unnecessary controversies, and trying to slow down the investigations process, the principals have been submitting before the SC-appointed JIT. The PM and his sons have appeared before the JIT to record their statements. Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif is to do likewise today. Meanwhile, all involved must act properly, staying within their respective spheres of responsibility so the demands of justice are met. This is too important a case to leave any room for any doubts and questions.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2017