LAHORE, July 20: PML-N President Nawaz Sharif says the decision of the influential people of society to present themselves for accountability voluntarily is a commendable step which will help strengthen democratic values and healthy political traditions in the country.

Commenting on a petition of two journalists to the Supreme Court to review the financial matters of all influential persons associated with media, he said it was a praiseworthy step.

He said leveling of allegations and mudslinging had been continuing for a long time and this trend of smearing impeccable characters was a matter of concern for society as it gave not only a free hand to non-political elements but also eroded the trust and confidence of the common man in society.

Mr Sharif said that under this situation, the contempt of court and violation of its decisions by the rulers and corruption under the patronage of the government had become a common practice.

He said that billions of rupees were recovered from bank accounts of personalities occupying key posts in the government and they were not able to give any justification. —  Staff Reporter