ISLAMABAD : Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Peshawar Electric Supply Company (PESCO), Akhtar Hamid Khan has sought Chairman National Accountability Bureau’s (NAB) intervention over any inquiry initiated against him for a period during which he was not serving as CEO of the Company.
” I have recently been informed of the authorization of an inquiry by NAB (KP), pertaining to alleged corruption and corrupt practices through manipulation of the tendering process in PESCO. The inquiry names me, along with the Project Director (GSC), Executive Engineer (TSW), Manager Procurement (PMU), Tikka Khan (a private individual), and others, under Section 18(c) of the National Accountability Ordinance, 1999,” CEO PESCO said in his letter to Chairman NAB.
CEO PESCO is of the view that the fully supports and appreciate NAB’s relentless efforts to eradicate corruption-a menace that undermines society’s fabric. However, he has highlighted that the period referenced in this inquiry does not pertain to his tenure or involvement.
” It is a matter of deep concern that, contrary to established practices, my name has been directly included in the inquiry authorization at this preliminary stage, without any preliminary evidence or establishment of my role. As I understand from precedents and procedural norms, inquiries at this juncture typically reference the department or its officers and officials in general terms, allowing for a fair and impartial process to unfold. Specific naming occurs only once a role is substantiated during investigation. This direct attribution, based solely on unverified allegations, has not only cast an unwarranted shadow over my professional reputation but has also subjected me to undue media trials, harsh judgments from colleagues, and emotional distress within my family circle. Such premature naming risks tarnishing the hard-earned legacy of honest service, even before any facts are ascertained,” CEO PESCO added.
Khan said that he was not requesting the discontinuation of the inquiry, as he firmly believes in accountability and the rule of law. Instead, he implores Chairman NAB as a beacon of justice and reform, to substitute his name in the inquiry authorization with “officers and officials of PESCO and others,” aligning with standard practices observed in similar cases involving previous officers of PESCO. This compassionate adjustment would preserve the dignity of the process while allowing the inquiry to proceed unhindered.
” I assure full and unwavering cooperation at every stage; I have already provided all relevant records and stand ready to furnish any further information or appear as required. Should any incriminating evidence emerge against me, I willingly submit to the full force of the law, trusting in the fairness of our institutions, ” he continued.
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