The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecom sharply criticized the Ministry of IT on Tuesday for failing to disclose basic details about the Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) Board, calling the lack of transparency “unacceptable.”
Committee Chairperson Senator Palwasha Khan led the charge, demanding a full list of board members, their roles, and the compensation they receive. “Why is this information being withheld? Why don’t you even know the names and positions?” she asked, pressing ministry officials for clarity.
Lawmakers Question PTCL’s Spending and Governance
Senators expressed frustration over what they described as a culture of secrecy surrounding PTCL’s management, particularly given the company’s size and importance in Pakistan’s telecom sector. Khan called the PTCL Board “a white elephant,” citing concerns over high allowances and meeting costs.
“How much is paid for a single meeting? Are these payments made in rupees or dollars?” she asked. Committee member Senator Nadeem Bhutto also demanded transparency, specifically seeking confirmation of which Pakistani nationals are serving on the board.
Ministry Deflects, Promises Answers Later
In response, ministry officials admitted they lacked the requested details but claimed they had already contacted Etisalat, the UAE-based telecom giant that holds a majority stake in PTCL, for clarification. They promised to share the information once Etisalat responds.
This explanation did little to satisfy lawmakers, who criticized the ministry for its lack of basic oversight. “It is very strange that you can’t even name the people running such a critical company,” Khan remarked.
Senate Demands Immediate Disclosure
The committee has formally ordered the Ministry of IT to submit a full report naming PTCL’s board members, outlining their positions, and detailing their pay and perks. Lawmakers warned that further hearings would follow if the ministry continues to delay.
The exchange highlights growing tensions between the government and PTCL’s management, with senators signaling that more scrutiny could be on the way for one of Pakistan’s most influential telecom operators.