PESHAWAR
Allegations of financial irregularities and favouritism in appointments within Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Health Department have prompted calls for accountability following an inquiry by the Anti-Corruption Establishment.
According to the inquiry report on Wednesday, the alleged irregularities caused a loss of Rs32.9 million to the public exchequer, while potential future losses could reach Rs149.2 million.
The report raises serious concerns over appointments to senior positions, candidates’ eligibility, salary fixation and the payment of additional financial benefits. It calls for a detailed review of recruitment procedures and the use of public funds to determine whether the appointments complied with applicable rules and regulations.
The investigation reportedly identified alleged favouritism in appointments ranging from director of pharmacy to senior consultants during the tenure of Noor-ul-Iman Fatima under the Board of Governors. The report also examines recruitment procedures, candidates’ qualifications and the financial benefits provided to appointees.
Accountability has also been proposed regarding appointments and financial matters during the tenures of Noshiwan Burki and Noor-ul-Iman Fatima.
The report emphasises the need to verify whether the appointments were made in accordance with prescribed rules and whether the payments from the public treasury had the required approvals and legal justification.
Reform measures taken under the leadership of Lieutenant General (retd) Nigar Johar have also highlighted the importance of financial discipline and scrutiny of recruitment practices.
The government’s stated priorities include transparent investigations into complaints concerning appointments and financial benefits in public hospitals, effective use of taxpayers’ money and strict compliance with relevant rules and regulations.
