Industry’s Plight: Former PM Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar Highlights IPP Issue as Concern for 240 Million Pakistanis

Lahore:Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar, former Deputy Prime Minister, emphasized that the issue of Independent Power Producers (IPPs) affects the entire nation, including its 240 million citizens. The IPP matter is currently under discussion in the Senate.

In a session organized by the Pakistan Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) in Lahore, Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar and former Federal Minister of Commerce Gohar Ejaz participated. Speaking at the FPCCI’s Regional Office, Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar stated that they are not merely raising the IPP issue for point-scoring but are committed to finding a solution through dialogue. He emphasized their history of fighting for the rights of the people and reassured that they would continue this struggle.

Kakar criticized the pessimistic narratives circulating on social media about the country, asserting that Pakistan’s future is bright. Meanwhile, Gohar Ejaz, former Federal Minister of Commerce and Interior, condemned the negligence of government institutions towards public welfare, highlighting widespread public sentiment against the adverse impacts of IPPs. He stressed the urgent need to find a resolution to terminate agreements with IPPs under all circumstances.

During the ceremony, FPCCI’s patrons, President Atif Ikram and Vice President Aatif Ikram, mentioned that the IPP issue is currently being addressed in court, underscoring the industry’s inability to function effectively under the current tariff structure.