ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday called for an expedited and comprehensive approach to attract top-tier international investors for the privatisation of state-owned power distribution companies (DISCOs). He also mandated the completion of the Privatisation Commission’s restructuring within one month.
During a high-level meeting reviewing the privatisation process of electricity distribution firms and institutional reforms at the Privatisation Commission, the prime minister emphasized that the sale must adhere to the designated timeline and align with global best practices. He urged officials to ensure the process is transparent and efficient.
Sharif highlighted the necessity of enhancing the commission’s institutional capacity by recruiting specialists in finance, law, and information technology. This move aims to bolster investor confidence and streamline operations. Furthermore, he instructed the timely finalization of the legal and regulatory frameworks essential to facilitate the privatisation efforts.
Notably, the prime minister acknowledged the positive response from investors participating in both domestic and international roadshows promoting the privatisation programme. He called for the integration of recommendations from seasoned professional consultants throughout the process to optimize outcomes.
Consumer interests remain a top priority, Sharif stressed, directing authorities to establish robust mechanisms to handle customer complaints effectively once the companies transition to private ownership.
Officials informed the meeting that roadshows targeting investors for the initial phase of DISCO privatisation—specifically Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO), Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO), and Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO)—have been successfully completed. Investor engagement in countries such as Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and China has yielded promising results.
The meeting included Energy Minister Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema, Information Technology Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Privatisation Muhammad Ali, along with other senior government officials.
