Senate Panel and Government Clash Over Power Distribution Companies’ Privatisation
ISLAMABAD: The proposed privatisation of power distribution companies (Discos) has ignited a significant debate in Pakistan, as a Senate panel asserts that the issue falls under the jurisdiction of the Council of Common Interests (CCI), while government officials argue that no new CCI approval is necessary.
During a session of the Senate Functional Committee on Devolution, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Privatisation Muhammad Ali stated that the privatisation process does not require fresh approval from the CCI. He highlighted that Discos have incurred losses exceeding $30 billion over the last 15 years, underscoring the urgency for reform.
This disagreement raises critical questions about governance and accountability in Pakistan’s energy sector. The Senate panel’s insistence on CCI involvement suggests a push for greater oversight and transparency in the privatisation process, which could impact the future of energy distribution and pricing for consumers.
Looking ahead, the Senate committee plans to seek records of the CCI’s decisions and other consultations related to the privatisation of Discos. This inquiry could lead to further discussions and potential legislative actions aimed at addressing the financial challenges posed by these companies.