By Naveed Miraj
ISLAMABAD: Whilst the coalition government is yet to appoint a permanent Governor State Bank of Pakistan after the end of term of Reza Baqir almost three months back, it has been learnt that Co-Chairman of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Asif Ali Zardari has got annoyed with the PML-N for not acceding to his demand of installing his close confidante Dr Asim Hussain, ex Petroleum Minister, to the most coveted seat at the central bank.
Sources fully cognizant of the controversy surrounding the SBP Governor told this correspondent that one of the main reasons behind the departure of Asif Ali Zardari to Dubai is the flat refusal by the PML-N to appoint his aide as the SBP Governor. “The coalition government led by the PML-N is the outcome of his efforts but the very posture of PML-N suggests that the party has no regard and respect for his opinion,” the sources quoted the former President as saying, adding this may lead to widening of cracks amongst the coalition partners which are already faced with the onslaught of PTI Chairman Imran Khan.
Sources within the PML-N whilst highlighting the importance and responsibilities of the SBP Governor stated that the PPP leader Asim Hussain is not qualified to sit on this seat. “We have given due share to the PPP in the federal cabinet including the important portfolios including that of the Foreign Ministry and the Commerce Ministry, however, demanding the seat of SBP Governor for a person whose only qualification is his association with the PPP, is something which cannot be entertained,” they said and also alluded to the corruption cases against Asim Hussain.
Dr Asim remained in custody of rangers for his alleged involvement in facilitating the treatment of terrorists at his private hospitals and misappropriation of funds. Back in 2016, he was indicted by an accountability court in Rs460 million corruption reference. Among other cases, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) also filed a reference of Rs60 billion against him for misusing authority to allot plots and encroach upon state land for the expansion of Ziauddin Hospital, which is owned by him. During his tenure as head of the Sindh HEC, allegations were leveled against him regarding misuse of the commission’s funds. Asim Hussain is also dubbed as the front man of Asif Ali Zardari in corruption and embezzlement of funds.
PPP Co-Chairman Asif Ali Zardari has always handed special and lucrative seats to Asim Hussain. According to sources, at present, the actual Minister for National Health Services is not Qadir Patel but Dr Asim Hussain. They said Qadir Patel is only a dummy minister whilst Dr Asim is actually calling shots in the ministry.
