Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Accuses PTI Government of Rs 40 Billion Scandal; PAC Orders Immediate Probe
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Accuses PTI Government of Rs 40 Billion Scandal; PAC Orders Immediate Probe
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Accuses PTI Government of Rs 40 Billion Scandal; PAC Orders Immediate Probe
PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has leveled grave allegations against the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-led provincial government, accusing it of orchestrating a massive Rs 40 billion financial scandal. Citing a credible audit report, he claimed that public funds were systematically embezzled in one district alone, calling it a "glaring example of institutional corruption" during PTI’s tenure.
During a media briefing at the Governor’s House, Kundi stated, “This group was involved in looting public tax money for personal gains, committing fraud, and engaging in organized corruption, which we had highlighted from day one.” He stressed that such corruption severely hampered the province’s development and demanded immediate accountability, urging law enforcement agencies to expedite investigations and disclose the audit report publicly.
The accusations have intensified political tensions, with PTI yet to issue an official response. Meanwhile, the provincial assembly’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC), chaired by Speaker Babar Saleem Swati, convened an emergency session to address suspicious transactions worth Rs 40 billion in Upper Kohistan’s official bank accounts. The PAC announced a special meeting on May 5, 2025, to investigate the scandal thoroughly.
Speaker Swati warned that those involved in funneling public funds through thousands of fraudulent checks would face strict consequences, emphasizing that the probe aims to “restore public trust and ensure financial transparency.”
In response, the provincial government directed the Anti-Corruption Department and relevant agencies to launch a transparent inquiry. Dr. Saif, Adviser to Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur on Information, reiterated the administration’s “zero-tolerance policy toward corruption,” clarifying that the scandal occurred under the previous PTI government. He highlighted the current administration’s stricter anti-graft measures.
Analysts argue that while the audit report strengthens Kundi’s claims, only swift judicial and administrative action can rebuild public confidence. Authorities have summoned NAB’s Director General, Finance Secretary, Secretary Works, and Auditor General to brief the PAC, with further explanations demanded from key officials.
Governor Kundi has persistently accused the former PTI government of financial misconduct and illegal resource transfers in recent weeks. The latest audit findings, however, have lent new urgency to his claims, potentially escalating political clashes in the province.
No comments yet.