KP minister’s removal: Barrister Saif says probe body had Imran’s nod

PESHAWAR: Adviser to Chief Minister on Information and Public Relations Barrister Mohammad Ali Saif on Saturday said the committee that investigated corruption allegations against former provincial minister Shakil Ahmad Khan was formed on the directives of ex-prime minister Imran Khan.

He said this in a statement released after his meeting with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan in Adiala Jail.

The statement said that Barrister Saif held discussion with Imran Khan about de-notifying the provincial minister from the cabinet.

The adviser said that all members of the committee were selected by Imran Khan. The committee members included former governor Shah Farman, senior lawyer Qazi Muhammad Anwar and Special Assistant to Chief Minister on Anti-Corruption Musaddiq Abbasi, which compiled the report based on evidence.

The de-notification process was carried out after the report was presented to the chief minister.

The statement quoted the PTI founder as saying that corruption would not be allowed under any circumstances. Imran Khan said the PTI had a zero tolerance policy for corruption.

Barrister Saif said the same committee would compile reports after investigation in the future, adding that if anyone had solid evidence, they should present it to the committee.

The PTI founder expressed displeasure over the attempts on social media to create the impression of factionalism and a disgruntled group within PTI. He directed workers not to be part of any group and remain united.

The PTI founder also instructed that those attempting to create discord and factionalism within the party should be thwarted. Party workers and leaders should effectively counter the propaganda against the chief minister on social media following the provincial minister’s de-notification.