LAHORE: National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Chairman Justice (r) Javed Iqbal on Monday rejected as false an impression created by some elements that the bureau was hindering national development. Speaking in Lahore, the chairman said, “corruption is eating away the country, NAB is a friendly institution that just wants to rid the country of corruption. We are ready to cooperate with any person who is ready to serve honestly and work without corruption.” He also added that the country’s top graft-buster looks past personal gains. “We look past personal gains and towards the prosperity and success of the country, we feel pride on that. This impression is wrong that NAB is raising obstacles in national development. NAB is not hindering or disturbing any kind of progress of the country.” Speaking on his own commitment to the country and accountability, the chairman said, “I will do as I deem fit, and I don’t care about what others make of it. I am fully involved in serving the country to the best of my abilities.” Before taking over as NAB chairman, Justice (r) Iqbal was lauded for his exceptional performance as president of the National Commission for Enforced Disappearances. Due to the NAB chief’s personal interest and efforts, the commission has recovered more than 2,800 missing persons, besides ensuring their safe return to their homes, according to sources. The sources said that as president of the commission, the chairman performed his duties for seven days a week and even on holidays without receiving any remuneration and salary. They said he met the families of missing persons and tried his utmost for their recovery. Relatives of missing persons also acknowledged the services of Justice (r) Iqbal. Published in Daily Times, March 20th 2018.