Fatima Energy to be investigated for receiving “special favours”

Former Minister of Water and Power Khawaja Asif alongside others have been held responsible for granting favour to FEL

Islamabad: A four-member committee has been established by cabinet division to investigate misconduct in inter-changeability of Fatima Energy Limited from co-generation policy to an IPP.

As per sources, the committee has been setup on instructions of Cabinet Committee on Energy (CCoE), to be held under aegis of Secretary, Cabinet Division including Secretary, Power Division, Managing Director, Private Power Infrastructure Board (PPIB) and Joint Secretary (EA), reported Business Recorder.

The Prime Minister’s office will carry out the investigation against Fatima Energy Limited, sources told. As per sources, it has been alleged ex-Minister for Water and Power Khawaja Asif, ex-secretary Water and Power Younus Dagha and MD PPIB Shah Jahan Mirza were responsible for providing special favour to FEL.

Since Mr. Mirza is also held in great esteem by Minister for Power, Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, it is expected he will also be adjudicated for his alleged role in this matter.

But FEL has challenged the assertions of the federal government citing a meeting was held between Prime Minister and the company representatives in presence of Secretary, Power Division. The meeting as pointed by FEL discussed matters pertaining to delay in COD of the company’s 120-megawatt power project.

It added, guidance had been sought to receive earliest dispatch of electricity to national grid since the FEL power plants were ready and set to transmit power.

FEL was apprised during course of the meeting that an investigation was underway regarding implementation of Fatima Energy Limited under Cogen Policy 2008.

Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi suggested FEL to be a party to the probe to ensure accuracy of the report.

FEL has sought a chance to present its version and facts related to the project to committee members alongside documentary proof for committee’s deliberation.

 

Must Read

Pakistan Eyes Kyrgyz Cotton to Bridge Local Shortfall

Pakistan plans to import three million bales of cotton worth $1.9 billion this year to address its production deficit, stated Ambassador Hasan Zaigham in...