PESHAWAR: In a surprising turn of events, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) Internal Accountability Committee (IAC) has decided to halt its investigation into former provincial health and finance minister Taimur Saleem Jhagra.
The inquiry, which had been examining Jhagra’s conduct, was suspended after he raised strong objections to the three-member committee overseeing the matter.
In a detailed response, Jhagra questioned the impartiality of the committee, accusing its members of bias and alleging that the process was politically motivated.
According to credible sources, the committee had earlier summoned around a dozen ministers over various complaints, including allegations of corruption and procedural irregularities. “The ministers were issued stern warnings and directed to rectify any discrepancies,” a source told The News.
“In some cases, changes were made based on these complaints, while other accusations were dropped after clarification.”
It was further revealed that the committee was originally constituted by PTI’s founding leadership and operates under the supervision of party chairman Imran Khan.
The sources added that Jhagra’s dissatisfaction with the inquiry process became clear in his written response to the committee, where he expressed distrust and made serious accusations regarding its intent and conduct.
Initially, he was notified of the committee’s decision to close the case and reportedly thanked them for managing the matter discreetly and professionally.
However, within 48 hours, Jhagra shared sensitive internal documentation on social media, triggering a wave of controversy and backlash directed at the committee.
The move was perceived as a deliberate attempt to discredit the IAC and raise doubts about its integrity.
Brigadier (retd) Musaddiq Abbasi, Adviser to the Chief Minister, confirmed that the inquiry was put on hold immediately after Jhagra’s reaction.
“His public statements and leaked material undermined the credibility of the process,” he told The News. “It was a clear breach of internal decorum.”
Following these developments, the IAC has referred the case to PTI’s founder, Imran Khan, for a final decision.
Commenting on the matter, Brigadier Musaddiq reiterated PTI’s longstanding commitment to internal accountability.
“Chairman Imran Khan has always maintained strict oversight of governance and ethical standards within the party,” he said. “Jhagra’s response, however, was inappropriate and appeared aimed at damaging the committee’s reputation.”