KARACHI – Pakistani TV host, social media influencer, and entrepreneur Waqar Zaka broke his silence after being declared absconder in wake of his perpetual absence from the trial proceedings in a cryptocurrency case.
Speaking with a local news outlet, Zaka recalled his contributions to the country’s economy, which is shrinking with each passing day. Despite commending me for contributions, the Federal Investigators accused me of illegal transactions, he maintained, calling the cases ‘fictitious and based on malicious intentions’.
He continued saying that the investigators should guide him about the cases as he raised questions about the procedure under which he was declared absconder. Zaka cited fears of being killed as he remained vocal about legalising crypto currency in South Asian nation.
Besides being feared for his life, he hinted at harassment meted out to his family members. The social media sensation urged the court to allow him to appear virtually as he currently stayed in the US.
The crypto-enthusiast, who even helped digital creators to generate reliable revenue on their platforms, raised questions about contributing to national kitty.
Bringing payment to Pakistan is certainly not a crime, Waqar mentioned, clearing the air about his source of income. Lamenting the stringent actions, he shared his ordeal and said that all of his funds stemmed from Facebook – which he termed as a legit source.
The influencer, who helped younger millennials who make up the largest segment of the Pakistani population today, plays a vital role in strengthening the country’s digital economy.
In his plea for an extension of time to assist the court with the grant of application for condonation of absence, Zaka said he is currently in the USA for a professional assignment, apprehending serious and reasonable danger by the Federal Investigators.
Earlier this month, the Judicial Magistrate of Karachi court ordered investigators to start the process of his proclamation and attachment of properties, as per the law. The court adjourned the case till March 2.
Let it be known that the former host remained vocal about legalising virtual currencies in the country. Officials also accused him of doing false online propaganda against institutions and provoking masses against the state.
In 2019, he filed a petition in Sindh High Court for legalising cryptocurrency in Pakistan.
