Ministry of Water and Power has reportedly decided not to appoint Muzaffar Abbasi as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Gujranlwala Electric Power Company, after he allegedly concealed facts about his references in NAB courts and FIA, well informed sources told Business Recorder. The employees of Gujranwala Electric Power Company (Gepco) have refused to accept Muzzafar Abbasi as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) due to his purported involvement in corruption.
He is facing the following references: (i) reference No 42/2016 pending before National Accountability Court, Multan; (ii) reference No 17/2016 pending before National Accountability Court, Hyderabad; and (iii) pre-arrest bail granted by the High Court, Sindh Circuit Court, Hyderabad on May 25, 2016.
The sources said, Gepco's Company Secretary, in pursuant to the instructions of the Board of Directors, Gepco issued in 70th BoD meeting held on August 24, 2016 asked Abbasi to explain his position regarding court references and provide the current status within seven days, however, Abbasi who has full backing of top men in the Ministry did not respond to the queries.
According to Gepco sources, Abbasi's name is included in Exit Control List (ECL) of Government of Pakistan and he was asked to confirm if this is correct but he has not responded so far. In addition, Gepco asked Abbasi to provide a declaration as prescribed in "Public Sector Companies (Appointment of Chief Executive)Guidelines, 2015" on non-Judicial stamp paper amounting to Rs 100, in the light of "fit and proper criteria for appointment as Chief Executive of a public sector company" as prescribed in schedule-II to the said guidelines.
Abbasi was further asked to disclose the particulars and present status of any other inquiry/investigation instituted against him, whether in process or otherwise, in any Accountability Court/ Investigating Agency Company. "Since Abbasi has failed to submit reply to the queries sent by Gepco after Board's approval, he is no more CEO Gepco," said an official. Akram Chaudhary will continue to perform as CEO. Meanwhile, company will advertise for the post of CEO afresh.