ISLAMABAD: Shahid Haider, the recently retired Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO), has challenged an ongoing investigation against him, alleging that it is aimed at disqualifying him from consideration for the CEO position during the current appointment process.
In a formal letter addressed to Power Division, Mr. Haider expressed serious concerns over the inquiry launched in connection with his tenure, which ended upon his retirement on April 4, 2025.
“It is reliably learnt that the findings and recommendations of the inquiry are adverse, despite the fact that I have committed no wrongdoing and have consistently served the organization and the country with utmost integrity, diligence, and transparency,” he stated.
Haider asserted that during his time as CEO, he demonstrated effective and principled leadership, emphasizing operational efficiency, service improvement, reduction in line losses, enhanced recoveries, and morale building among employees—all while maintaining merit and institutional integrity.
He criticized the inquiry process, claiming it lacked fairness and objectivity. “It is extremely disheartening to learn that the inquiry process appears to have been driven by bias and predisposition rather than facts and fairness. The evidence has not been assessed in a balanced and just manner,” he noted, adding that the proceedings had caused him considerable distress and harmed his reputation built over decades of public service.
Haider further emphasized his role in the strategic transformation of LESCO and claimed credit for instilling a culture of discipline and accountability, citing the dismissal or reversion of 97 officers and officials due to inefficiencies or misconduct.
However, he noted that despite submitting his achievements to the Power Division, the LESCO Board of Directors received no acknowledgment in the process. He also argued that he was not afforded the opportunity to properly defend himself. “Neither was my statement recorded, nor was I given any questionnaire to unearth the truth. The findings and recommendations are without any solid basis,” he said.
Mr. Haider concluded by alleging that the inquiry was orchestrated to bar him from even the preliminary interview stage for the ongoing CEO appointment process. He has requested the Power Division to suspend the selection process until a decision is made on his petition.
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