Former Finance Minister Miftah Ismail has called for a full investigation into Pakistan’s recent sugar export crisis. He claims the policy favored a small group of sugar mill owners and was influenced by vested interests within the government.
Speaking at a press conference in Karachi, Miftah Ismail denied corruption allegations made against him by two Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) senators. He described the accusations as baseless and politically motivated. Ismail specifically mentioned PML-N leader Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, who he said had apologized privately for false claims about the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP).
Miftah Ismail said the sugar export was planned to cause an artificial rise in sugar prices. He accused the government of benefiting sugar mill owners through this policy. According to him, the foreign minister’s appointment as head of the sugar committee showed a clear conflict of interest.
The former minister also criticized the government’s approach to agriculture and energy sectors. He said farmers are suffering while sugar barons profit. Ismail pointed out that rising electricity prices and overbilling are hurting common people. He mentioned the Rs244 billion electricity overbilling as a major issue and urged the government to return this amount to the public if they are honest.
Miftah Ismail further commented on the worsening governance under Shehbaz Sharif’s government. He said public suffering has increased during the last three years. He also expressed sorrow for recent tragedies in Gwadar and other areas affected by heavy monsoon rains.
In summary, Miftah Ismail has highlighted major problems in government policies, particularly regarding sugar exports and energy. He has asked for accountability and transparency to protect the interests of farmers and ordinary citizens.
This statement by Miftah Ismail has drawn attention to ongoing concerns about governance and economic management in Pakistan. The call for investigation into the sugar crisis is likely to increase political debate on the issue.
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