Former Caretaker Commerce Minister Dr. Gohar Ijaz has announced that the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) will petition the Supreme Court to address grievances with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) contracts. In a recent tweet, Dr. Ijaz revealed that the FPCCI is set to formally approach the Supreme Court, arguing that the IPP contracts are infringing on the fundamental rights of Pakistani citizens by making electricity unaffordable and businesses unsustainable. Dr. Ijaz criticized the IPP agreements, stating that Pakistan is paying billions for electricity that is not being generated, a situation exacerbating the country’s financial crisis. He highlighted a 2020 report by former Interim Energy Minister Muhammad Ali, which detailed losses due to government mismanagement and IPP misrepresentations. He questioned why the report's recommendations, including a forensic audit, were not implemented. He urged the government to prioritize the well-being of Pakistan’s 240 million citizens over the profits of a few families. Dr. Ijaz emphasized that Pakistan’s abundant resources should benefit its people, not just a select group of investors seeking undue gains.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan