Recovery without fear: Why corruption still thrives

Undoubtedly the recovery of looted public money by National Accountability Bureau since its inception has been most outstanding and exemplary. All NAB Chairman’s did wonderful job and recovered huge amount from the corrupt mafia’s. Recent statements by the Chairman of National Accountability Bureau (NAB) highlight a staggering recovery of Rs. 1.124 trillion in cash and assets worth nearly $30 billion over the past two and a half years deserves congratulations and appreciation. On the surface, this appears to be a remarkable achievement and it reflects institutional effort and operational success. However, beneath this impressive figure lies a troubling reality that cannot be ignored. A closer look raises an uncomfortable question: if such massive amounts are being recovered, does it not also indicate that corruption continues to flourish at an equally alarming scale? This is not the first time such claims have been made. Previous NAB leadership reported similar recoveries, suggesting a recurring pattern rather than a breakthrough. The cycle seems clear corruption takes place, funds are siphoned off, and eventually some portion is recovered. But where is the deterrence? Where is the accountability that prevents the crime in the first place?
Recovery vs. Accountability. Recovering looted wealth is important, but it is not justice. Justice demands consequences. The absence of visible and consistent punishment creates an environment where corrupt individuals feel emboldened rather than fearful. When those involved in large-scale corruption are neither publicly held accountable nor meaningfully penalized, it sends a dangerous message: corruption is a risk worth taking. In many cases, corruption operates through mutual consent between officials, contractors, and beneficiaries. When entire systems become complicit, recovery alone cannot dismantle the network. It merely scratches the surface. Legal and Structural Gaps. Another concern lies in legislative decisions that appear to weaken accountability mechanisms. Reports that financial thresholds such as cases involving amounts up to Rs. 50 crore fall outside NAB’s purview raise serious questions. Such provisions may unintentionally create safe zones for corruption, effectively signaling that certain levels of financial misconduct can go unchecked.
This not only undermines the credibility of institutions but also erodes public trust in governance. Societal Complicity. Corruption is not only an institutional failure it is also a societal one. From small facilitation payments to large-scale embezzlement, everyday practices often normalize unethical behavior. When society begins to accept corruption as a “necessary evil,” it becomes deeply entrenched and harder to eliminate. The Way Forward. To genuinely combat corruption, recovery must be accompanied by Strict and transparent punishment for those proven guilty. Confiscation of illegal assets to ensure crime does not pay. Legal reforms that close loopholes rather than create them. Public accountability mechanisms that build trust and deterrence. At the same time, responses must remain within the bounds of law and human dignity. Public humiliation or extrajudicial measures may appeal emotionally, but sustainable reform requires strong institutions, fair trials, and consistent enforcement. The scale of recovery by NAB is not just a measure of success it is also a mirror reflecting the depth of corruption in society. Until fear of accountability replaces the confidence of impunity, such recoveries will continue to repeat without addressing the root cause. The real victory will not be measured in trillions recovered, but in a future where such recoveries are no longer necessary. To create a strong deterrent effect the names of offenders, along with details of the money recovered, should be published in newspapers through a special supplement. Since it is unlikely that the entire looted amount can ever be recovered, a mandatory imprisonment of two to three years should be enforced in such cases. Additionally, a special directory in booklet form should be prepared, containing full particulars of the offenders, including the amounts looted and recovered. Copies of this directory should be placed in all major libraries across Pakistan to ensure public awareness and accountability. Well done NAB, keep it up.