Lawmakers, govt differ over Discos’ privatisation
• Muhammad Ali claims CCI nod not required, says Discos caused over $30bn in losses over 15 years • Panel seeks records of council’s decisions, other consultations • Questions Rs2.6tr federal spending on devolved subjects ISLAMABAD: The proposed privatisation of power distribution companies (Discos) stirred controversy on Wednesday, as a Senate panel maintained that the matter constitutionally…
The proposed privatisation of power distribution companies (Discos) in Pakistan has sparked controversy as lawmakers and the government clash over the issue. The Senate panel maintains that the matter falls within the purview of the Council of Common Interests (CCI), while the government's top privatisation official claims that no new CCI approval is required.
Prime Minister's adviser on privatisation, Muhammad Ali, stated that the companies have caused over $30 billion in losses over the past 15 years and that no fresh CCI approval is needed due to previous decisions made in 2011 and a national electricity policy in 2021. In response, Senator Zamir Hussain Ghumro emphasised the constitutional position and role of the CCI, questioning whether the proposed privatisation aligns with the constitutional distribution of powers under Article 157.
Ghumro also stressed the importance of transparency and protecting provincial interests, and urged authorities to provide relevant decisions and supporting documents for examination.
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