ISLAMABAD: Despite the government’s significant claims of reforming the power sector, these efforts seem unlikely to succeed in the long term. A major obstacle is the bureaucracy that has taken control of the Ministry of Energy, which believes it is the solution to every problem, despite lacking expertise in the sector.
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has held almost daily meetings on energy issues, but has failed to achieve any meaningful progress. This is evident from the fact that neither losses have been reduced nor has circular debt been addressed. The situation with power distribution companies (DISCOs) remains unchanged.
New boards have been formed, but the issues persist in the discos. Special cells, including officers from the FIA, have also been established, yet they too are facing corruption allegations. The Ministry of Energy continues to pressure the discos’ boards for their poor performance.
Official sources have confirmed that Imran Zaffar, the well-educated businessman and Chairman of the Board of Directors (BoD) of Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO), has tendered his resignation. He has also stepped down from his position on the Board of Multan Electric Power Company (MEPCO). While the true reasons behind his decision remain undisclosed, the Chairman has cited personal reasons for his resignation.
