Finance minister vows to protect consumers’ rights

ISLAMABAD
Minister of State for Finance Ali Pervaiz Malik Wednesday reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to consumer protection, assuring that it will remain a top priority where Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was taking aggressive measures to not only end power outages but also uplift the most vulnerable segments of society.
Talking to a private news channel, he while elaborating on the government’s strategy explained that efforts are underway to create a conducive business environment for the power sector to flourish. “We are not just focusing on privatization, but also on building a robust framework that encourages investment, innovation, and competition,” he said.
This multi-pronged approach, he added, will not only enhance the efficiency and reliability of power supply but also attract private sector participation, driving economic growth and job creation, he mentioned. He said that Power and Finance ministry working together and consulting with neighbor countries how to control these power crises effectively.
Malik emphasized that consumer protection will remain at the forefront of these efforts, ensuring that vulnerable segments are shielded from exploitation and receive fair, quality services. Ali Pervaiz Malik said with the consultation of the World Bank, work on the privatization of power distribution companies is also under process. Responding a query, he said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced billion of energy subsidy package for low-income households that consume less than 200 units of electricity which is admirable.
“My government is totally committed to bringing huge reforms and huge structural changes, he said, adding, we are inching towards that direction. Otherwise, it will be a futile exercise and will not produce proportionate results. We are absolutely focused on the agenda of short as well as long-term policies, he added.