ISLAMABAD: This refers to your editorial titled “Removal of SBP Deputy Governor” published on April 1, 2013. This morning, I was disappointed to read your piece on the controversy surrounding the removal of the deputy governor of the State Bank of Pakistan.
It has been erroneously reported that newly-appointed Deputy Governor Ashraf Wathra has been an executive director at the National Bank of Pakistan and is, allegedly, involved in doling out loans to politicians without collateral. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Wathra moved to the bank barely five months back as the head of the Credit Management Group. He brought with him a rich and varied 25-year experience in the banking sector.
Previously, your paper lauded this appointed made on merit. Now, the editorial comments are screaming for his removal to set a precedent for the powers of the election commission.
Your editorial is presumptuous in claiming that Wathra’s appointment is putting him in a position where he faces a conflict of interest. It gives the impression that he was the authority to dole out loans to politicians, and now has maneuvered himself into a position that will help politicians go scot-free.
I would like to remind you that editorials are the heart and soul of a paper. These pieces should not accuse individuals without first doing in-depth research.
Naseem-Ur-Rehman
Published in The Express Tribune, April 4th, 2013.
