KARACHI(12th Dec. 2023) A significant number of Executive Committee and General Body members of FPCCI have submitted a letter to DGTO, highlighting pressing concerns about the FPCCI Election 2024-25. The primary focus of their concerns revolves around the conduct of the Secretary General, who has displayed noticeable bias in favor of the present management of FPCCI.
The recent actions by the Secretary General in the elections have prompted suspicions and significant concerns. His apparent bias, evident in excluding legitimate trade bodies and members from the final voters list as per his circular No 2540 dated 8-12-23, reflects poorly on the integrity of the election process. Furthermore, his perceived alignment with BMP raises questions about his impartiality and professionalism, as mentioned in the members’ letter.
It is critical to note that the Secretary General has no authority to modify the final voters list after the DGTO’s decision. By excluding certain trade bodies, he has superseded the DGTO’s decision, leading to widespread criticism and casting doubt on the credibility of the election process.
Additionally, misinformation has been circulated to voters, stating that candidates for elections can only be proposed and seconded by Executive Committee members. However, the Trade Organizations Rules (TOR) explicitly state that every voter has the right to propose and second the nomination of candidates.
The final voters list lacks the signatures of the Election Commission, rendering the entire list issued by the Secretary General invalid.
The members have urged DGTO to inquire with the Secretary General about the reasons why the Election Commission has not signed the final voters list.
These biased decisions not only disqualify the Secretary General from continuing in his role but also raise concerns about his attempt to supersede the authority of DGTO. Such actions are unprecedented and undermine the credibility of FPCCI.
The members appeal to DGTO and request the following:
Conduct the elections of FPCCI under his direct supervision.
Conduct a thorough investigation into these matters and consider the immediate removal of the Secretary General, along with his team members, including Amjad Qureshi (ASG), Mahreen Razak (Director), Mahmood Ahmed (DSG), and Arfeeen Memon (Director).
Request IG Sindh to depute a police force at Federation House Main Clifton on Election Day to ensure a smooth process of the election.
Issue the final election list of voters from the DGTO office.
