Maryam vows tough crackdown on Punjab corruption

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced a strict crackdown on corruption across the province. She said there would be no room for corruption or bribery under her administration.

In a statement on Thursday, Maryam said the government had adopted an “iron-fist” approach against corruption. She said a special confidential cell had been established to identify corrupt elements and gather information about wrongdoing. Reports concerning corrupt individuals are being sent directly to the chief minister, she added.

Maryam said the government had also established helpline 1350 for public complaints. Citizens can use the helpline to report corruption and other irregularities. She assured the public that the identity of every complainant would be kept confidential. She also promised that every complaint would be acted upon.

The chief minister said no one would be able to escape accountability because of their position, personal connections or recommendations. She warned that official status or influence would not protect anyone involved in corruption.

Maryam further said action against corrupt individuals would continue until the full recovery of allegedly looted public money. She stressed that the government would pursue the recovery of funds and would not end proceedings simply because an accused person held an influential position.

The Punjab chief minister said public money must be used only for public welfare. “Public money will be spent only on the public,” she said, adding that she would not allow anyone to misuse or take funds belonging to the people.