A session of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) came to an abrupt halt after members strongly protested what they described as retaliatory actions by the Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda) against PTI lawmaker Sanaullah Mastikhel. The protest stemmed from Mastikhel’s previous remarks questioning the appointment of a retired lieutenant general as Wapda Chairman.
PAC Chairman Junaid Akbar disclosed that soon after Mastikhel’s inquiry during the earlier session, power department officials reportedly removed electricity meters and transformers from his residence in the village during the night. “Revenue staff even showed up with intentions to demolish his house and commercial plaza,” Akbar stated.
The development prompted a rare moment of unity among lawmakers from both the government and opposition, who collectively condemned the alleged actions. “An attack on one member is an attack on the entire parliamentary oversight process,” members emphasized.
Expressing concern, Hina Rabbani Khar remarked, “If this is the reaction to asking questions, perhaps we need to reconsider our role.” Other lawmakers, including Naveed Qamar, Afnan Ullah, and Saleem Mandviwalla, also voiced their disapproval, with Mandviwalla suggesting that no further PAC sessions be held until the matter is properly addressed.
Standing his ground, MNA Mastikhel declared, “Our only offense is guarding the public’s money. We believe this country must run according to the Constitution and that all institutions should remain within their defined legal roles.”
To address the issue, the PAC decided to summon the Secretary for Energy and the Chief Executive Officer of the Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) for an explanation. Additionally, a formal letter will be submitted to the Speaker of the National Assembly, requesting immediate intervention.
