Who would solve masses problem if not democratic govt, says CJP Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry

The Supreme Court of Pakistan has adjourned the hearing of case against alleged corruption in Rental Power Plants (RPPs) till today (Friday), meanwhile, Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry has observed that Pakistan’s foreign debt has jumped up to $67 billion due to the government’s poor policies.

A division bench headed by Chief Justice (CJ) Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry is hearing a suo motu case, along with two identical petitions, alleging corrupt practices in the awarding of contracts for Rental Power Plants (RPPs).

Abdul Hafeez Pirzada, the counsel of a Reshma Rental Generation Ltd, contended before the court, saying that despite government efforts, no international power company agreed to invest in Pakistan.

He told the court that only five out of 19 power plants could be installed while almost 50 percent projects and unlikely to be set up. “All this was carried out sans any homework or planning, and the country is on the verge of collapse now,” he said.

He said even Hillary Clinton dictates Pakistan to get rid of the growing corruption. “It reflects worst conditions and governments apathy towards eliminating embezzlements in its institutions”.

He said the government is not paying enough to companies to purchase oil for power generation, adding that the country interest may be protected in the court verdict. CJ replied that the Supreme Court always took the decision in the public interest.

In his remarks, CJP Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry, “People are thinking and questioning that how government is inking accords without advertisements.” 

He said the democratic government has a full mandate to work freely and properly, adding that apex court’s verdict on Karachi law and order situation is a wakeup call for the government.

“Pakistan’s loan is going up with each passing day. The country is under burden of 67 billion dollars loan and negotiating with World Bank and IMF on the other hand” CJ added.

The chief justice also showed displeasure on the RPP’s contract saying no advertisements were published before the contracts.

The counsel for Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) Khawaja Tariq Raheem argued that the authority has remained unable to collect electricity bills in Balochistan and FATA.

He said that the report of Auditor General has not been properly presented before the court, adding that parliament discussed rental projects for five days. Back doors had not been used for theses contracts, he added.

He also suggested that the government should take austerity measures and cut its expenses.

Justice Khilji Arif Hussain questioned why oil was not being purchased for the power plants?  He said the people had turned to streets regarding their problems.

Hafeez said that the government was responsible to defend basic rights which were being exploited in the country. He said the rulers have not learnt any lesson from history.

Meanwhile, PEPCO’s lawyer told the court that recovery of electricity charges from Khyber-Pakhtukhwa and Balochistan was not possible.

Justice Khilji Arif asked why the power theft was not ended as the factories were also stealing electricity.
Later, the court adjourned the hearing of case for today (Friday). SANA