EC asks MPs to submit asset declarations by Sept 30

* To publish details in official gazette

Staff Report

ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission (EC) of Pakistan on Monday directed parliamentarians to submit yearly statements of their assets and liabilities, and those of their spouses and dependents to the commission by September 30, 2003, and said it will publish them in an official gazette.

“The yearly submission of a statement of assets is a legal requirement and if any parliamentarian fails to do so within the stipulated time, he will cease to function as a member till such a statement is submitted,” the EC said in a press release. “Similarly, members filing false information in their statements will be proceeded against on a charge of corrupt practices.”

On October 15 each year, the EC will announce the names of members who fail to file the statement and, by an order, direct that such members cease to function till the statement is submitted.

An EC official told Daily Times that the particulars of the members of the National and provincial assemblies and the Senate would be available for public perusal. “Details of movable, immovable assets, bank accounts, yearly expenditures, educational qualifications, political affiliation and other information will be compiled.” The step is being taken in line with the recommendations of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy Implementation Committee. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had asked for a compilation of computerised data regarding the MPs’ particulars on a yearly basis. The purpose behind the move is to check the misuse of power, corruption and corrupt practices, the official said.

“At the end of each financial year, every MP would be asked to furnish his updated profile on a performa wherein he would declare any changes in the previously furnished particulars.” The data currently available with the EC is based on information provided by the parliamentarians in the nomination forms during the 2002 general elections.

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