ISLAMABAD: Former Interim Commerce Minister Dr. Gohar Ejaz has announced that the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) will challenge agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) in the Supreme Court.
In a post on social media platform X, Ejaz said that FPCCI, representing Pakistan’s business community, will file a formal petition in the apex court, seeking its intervention in what he described as an untenable situation affecting the fundamental right to life of every Pakistani.
Ejaz highlighted that under current IPP agreements, Pakistan pays substantial sums to companies that do not generate electricity. He underscored that the exorbitant electricity costs have become unbearable, plunging citizens into poverty and driving businesses into bankruptcy.
Citing a detailed 2020 report by former Interim Energy Minister Muhammad Ali, Ejaz pointed out significant financial losses due to government inefficiencies and misrepresentations by IPPs. He questioned why the recommendations of the report, including a forensic audit, had not been fully implemented.
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“The government needs to prioritize the well-being of 240 million Pakistanis over ensuring profits for a few families,” Ejaz asserted.
He stressed that Pakistan, endowed with abundant resources, must eradicate mismanagement to foster prosperity. “Electricity costs are pivotal for Pakistan’s industries and directly impact the lives of 240 million people,” he added.
Ejaz concluded by cautioning against repeating past mistakes merely to benefit new groups of investors without contributing to national development.
