Mian Nasser Hyatt Maggo, chairman of the FPCCI, criticized the harassment and arrest of a businessman by the NAB at the premises of the Honorable Supreme Court of Pakistan.

He added that government officials have repeatedly assured the FPCCI that businessmen will be treated with dignity and will be duly respected in accordance with basic human rights inculcated in the Constitution of Pakistan.

Maggo reiterated that it had been decided between the FPCCI and the government that the NAB would not take over the business and affairs of the industry as there are other dedicated legal and constitutional forums available to them. However, the NAB continues to interfere in business and industry.

Maggo also thanked the Honorable Acting Chief Justice of Pakistan for taking note of the situation and asking NAB officials to explain why the arrest was necessary; while the accused Mr. Saif-Ur-Rehman appeared in court for the pre-arrest bail proceedings.

He stated that he has full confidence and faith in the Pakistani judicial system and that he does not support – in any way – corrupt practices in the business world; but, he firmly believes in the basic legal principle that everyone is innocent until proven guilty.

Maggo pointed out that, in essence, businesses run any economy by paying taxes and creating jobs – and businessmen are treated with respect and honor in all civilized societies.