US seeks NAB help following flood of complaints of “misuse of funds” provided to Pak

ISLAMABAD - Concerned over the “possible misuse of funds” aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s economy, the United States has sought the assistance of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) to ensure transparency in the utilisation of funds being provided to Pakistan through non-governmental organisations under the Kerry-Lugar Act.

The USAID delegation, comprising Daniel P. Altman and Charles D. Zimmerman, conveyed their concerns to the Pakistan government during a meeting with NAB chairman Justice (retired) Syed Deedar Hussain Shah on Thursday, the Dawn reported.

The officials said that they had received a significant number of complaints about the misuse and misappropriation of funds by NGOs, and asked the NAB to keep an eye on them.

The US delegation discussed the modalities for ensuring proper utilisation of the funds, and Shah assured them of the bureau’s complete support for transparent use of aid.

The NAB chairman also stressed the need for curbing corruption and taking action against those who cheated the public for personal gains.

It was decided during the meeting that the USAID Inspector General would hold a meeting with the NAB chief next month to further strengthen the cooperation.

A NAB spokesman revealed that the bureau had decided to take prompt action on the complaints received against the NGOs dealing with US funds. (ANI)