Government Experts to Fast-Track Privatization Plans
- ISLAMABAD - Teh Privatisation Commission of Pakistan has proposed an increase to its annual budget to facilitate the hiring of specialized experts,aiming to accelerate the government's ongoing privatisation...
- Privatisation Secretary usman Akhtar Bajwa explained to the committee that the current workload necessitates additional personnel.
- Committee members were informed that both the Privatisation Division and the commission are currently operating under budgetary constraints, with a significant portion of existing funds allocated to employee-related...
Privatisation Commission Seeks Budget Increase for Expert Hiring
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ISLAMABAD – Teh Privatisation Commission of Pakistan has proposed an increase to its annual budget to facilitate the hiring of specialized experts,aiming to accelerate the government’s ongoing privatisation agenda. The proposal was presented to the Senate Standing Committee on Privatisation on Friday,January 30th,2026.
Capacity Constraints and Sector Expertise
Privatisation Secretary usman Akhtar Bajwa explained to the committee that the current workload necessitates additional personnel. According to the commission,a single expert can effectively manage only up to two privatisation transactions concurrently. The need for sector-specific expertise, particularly within the power distribution sector (Discos), was highlighted as a critical factor driving the request. The commission successfully completed the privatisation of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) with its existing staff, but anticipates increased demands with forthcoming transactions.
Budgetary Limitations and Recruitment Strategy
Committee members were informed that both the Privatisation Division and the commission are currently operating under budgetary constraints, with a significant portion of existing funds allocated to employee-related expenses.The proposed budget increase would allow the commission to attract qualified professionals through competitive salaries.
Committee Response and PIA Privatisation
While some committee members raised concerns regarding the necessity of additional recruitment, Senator Afnan Ullah Khan, the committee’s chairman, expressed thankfulness for the commission’s performance and indicated preliminary support for the proposal. Senator Khan also extended commendation to the ministry and the commission for the prosperous completion of the PIA privatisation. As of January 31st, 2026, the final decision on the budget increase remains pending further review by the committee.