A joint investigation team (JIT) has identified former finance minister Abdul Hafeez Shaikh as the alleged mastermind behind irregularities in Islamabad’s One Constitution Avenue project. The investigation accuses him of colluding with Capital Development Authority (CDA) officials to manipulate bidding procedures and secure unlawful benefits.
The report highlights serious questions about the allocation of a 13.5-acre plot, changes in its approved use and the sale of 254 apartments. Moreover, investigators have recommended accountability measures against those allegedly involved in the controversial development.
One Constitution Avenue Project: What Did the JIT Investigation Find?
According to the investigation, authorities originally approved the 13.5-acre plot exclusively for a five-star hotel with serviced apartments. However, the project later changed into a residential apartment development.
The JIT found that developers illegally sold 254 apartments as residential units through 99-year subleases. Consequently, the arrangement allegedly caused financial losses to the national exchequer while benefiting those involved and their associates.
The team recommended blacklisting Abdul Hafeez Shaikh and BNP (Private) Limited from participating in future government projects.
JIT Exposes Irregularities in CDA Bidding Process
The investigation identified several alleged violations during the project’s auction and bidding procedures.
Initially, the CDA cancelled the first auction without obtaining approval from its board. Subsequently, officials launched another bidding process under revised conditions.
The investigation also found that authorities relaxed restrictions on building height, covered area and parking facilities without board approval.
Another major concern involved the winning consortium. A four-member consortium initially secured the bidding process, but the CDA eventually awarded the lease to BNP (Private) Limited.
The company was not part of the winning consortium. Furthermore, investigators found that the CDA had failed to establish the relationship between the consortium members and BNP.
The JIT also questioned the termination of the bank guarantee just three days before the lease agreement’s signing. According to the report, this decision benefited the developer.
Forged Signatures and Questions Over Joint Venture Documents
The investigation raised serious concerns about the authenticity of documents supporting the project’s joint venture arrangement.
The agreement appeared in the CDA’s official records in 2012, several years after its alleged execution. Investigators also found that signatures belonging to two consortium members were forged.
Additionally, one witness was reportedly abroad on the date mentioned in the agreement. The JIT questioned another procedural irregularity involving the lease registration.
Instead of registering the lease through the relevant sub-registrar, authorities processed it through a rent controller.
Former CDA Officials Named in Investigation
The JIT identified several individuals allegedly involved in collusion with Shaikh during the project.
Those named in the report include:
- Former CDA chairman Kamran Lashari
- Dr Faisal Awan
- Azhar Ali Chaudhry
- Retired Brigadier Nusratullah
- Late Rai Nawaz Kharal
The investigation recommended that the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) accelerate its proceedings. It also proposed filing a reference before the relevant court within three months.
What Happens to the 254 Apartment Buyers?
The JIT has also proposed measures to protect genuine buyers who invested in the controversial project.
It recommended returning their original investments along with KIBOR-based interest or an adjustment for inflation.
Furthermore, the team proposed a fresh auction of the land and buildings through a transparent process. It also called for a comprehensive legal review of the development.
Another recommendation involves prohibiting residential use of the property.
These proposals aim to address the financial consequences of the disputed arrangements while protecting genuine purchasers.
JIT Recommends Renaming One Constitution Avenue
The investigation also highlighted concerns about the project’s name and security requirements.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs objected to the name One Constitution Avenue because it represents the ministry’s official address. Consequently, the JIT recommended changing the project’s name.
The team also called for obtaining the required security, Civil Aviation Authority and environmental clearances. Additionally, it recommended installing appropriate firefighting equipment.
Major Reforms Proposed for CDA
Beyond the specific project, the JIT proposed wider institutional reforms to prevent similar irregularities.
The recommendations include a comprehensive overhaul of the CDA Ordinance and establishing an independent Master Plan Commission. The team also called for digitising official records and approval procedures.
Furthermore, it proposed rotating officers in estate management, planning, enforcement and building control departments every two years.
The JIT also recommended making third-party audits of auctions and contracts mandatory before their execution.
How the One Constitution Avenue Investigation Began
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif constituted a high-level committee on May 1, 2026, to examine the controversial project. He subsequently ordered the formation of a joint investigation team headed by NAB.
The investigation examined several aspects of the development, including land allocation, bidding procedures and lease arrangements. It also reviewed construction approvals and the subsequent sale of apartments.
The findings have now brought multiple alleged irregularities into focus, alongside recommendations for accountability and institutional reform. Meanwhile, the proposed measures could determine the project’s legal and financial future, particularly for genuine apartment buyers.
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