Miftah Ismail Clarifies Sugar Policy Controversy, Denies Corruption Allegations

Islamabad (ABN News): Former Finance Minister Miftah Ismail has stated that the issue surrounding the sugar policy and the World Food Programme (WFP) contract dates back to before his tenure and that he has no personal involvement in any wrongdoing.

Speaking on ABN News’ program Sawal Se Aagay, Ismail clarified that the pilot phase of the sugar procurement program began in 2019, prior to his appointment as a federal minister, and was later expanded.

He emphasized that the international agreement for program expansion was signed in March 2022 and that he had already been removed from office in September 2022. “I was never the final decision-maker, nor do any corruption allegations apply to me,” he said. “I participated in WFP tenders but was not involved in selling goods directly. Whatever happened afterward was beyond my knowledge or involvement.”

Addressing the broader context of government spending, Ismail pointed out that while Rs 900 billion are allocated for various government programs, sectors like railways receive only Rs 24 billion, and some schemes get as much as Rs 109 billion. “These allocations reflect the government’s priorities,” he added.

Ismail also criticized the sugar policy-making process, noting that decisions made in 2019 were not under his watch. He expressed concern over the undue influence of sugar mill owners on policy, sidelining farmers. “Every two years we face a sugar crisis. This must be regulated. Sugar industry stakeholders impact the policy while the farmer remains ignored,” he said.

He questioned the reliability of data provided by the sugar commissioner and industry representatives and claimed that committee members often engage with mill owners rather than farmers. Ismail concluded by suggesting that the sudden focus on accountability seems politically motivated, hinting that the real issue may lie elsewhere.