In the wake of the vigilant government, the Prime Minister has approved the recommendations of the inquiry committee, assigning responsibility to the culprits in the wheat import scandal.
Suspension of 4 Federal Govt OfficersÂ
Government sources state that they have approved the suspension of four officers from the Federal Ministry of National Food Security. They have authorized formal action against former Federal Secretary of National Food Security, Muhammad Asif. The approval for suspension also extends to former DG Plant Protection AD Abid, Food Security Commissioner Dr. Wasim, and Director Sahil. The authorities have charged these officers with inadequate planning and negligence, which led to the wheat market crash due to surplus wheat imports.
Lack of Accountability in the Previous Month Govt
It is noteworthy that during investigations spanning over a month, no official of the vigilant government was summoned. Who permitted wheat imports during the vigilant government? Whose responsibility was it to determine the quantity? Why didn’t the newly elected government receive information about it after importing more wheat than necessary? These questions still need answers.
Inquiry Ordered by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif ordered an inquiry into the continuation of wheat imports after February 2024 and instructed the committee to seek a report within a week on continuing wheat imports and identifying those responsible for opening LCs. However, later, the committee’s terms of reference were expanded.
Increased Wheat Imports and Unanswered Questions Govt
Despite the urgency of the matter, there is a lack of transparency regarding the decisions made in wheat import policies. The failure to inform the new government about excessive wheat imports raises concerns about accountability and communication within government departments. The inquiry initiated by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif aims to shed light on these matters and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
