Punjab governor slams IPPs over graft

Govt denounces IPP sector as corrupt and harmful to the nation

LAHORE:

Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider on Thursday criticized the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and the government, denouncing the IPP sector as corrupt and harmful to the nation.

In a press briefing at the Governor House, Haider highlighted the severe economic burden on Pakistan, noting that electricity costs are significantly lower in neighboring Bangladesh and Afghanistan compared to Pakistan. He accused 42 IPPs of being controlled by government officials and called for a comprehensive audit of these entities.

Haider praised former caretaker federal minister Gohar Ejaz for bringing these issues to light.

The governor also condemned the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) administration, alleging that the practice of trading government positions for bribes, which began during the PTI era, persists.

Addressing questions, Haider expressed his opposition to commercial activities at the Governor House, a historic site. He revealed plans to reduce electricity costs at the Governor House by transitioning to solar power, with negotiations underway with two companies to install solar systems at no cost.

Haider was critical of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government's 18-month tenure, describing it as a challenging period for the Pakistan People's Party (PPP).