Energy sector problems are becoming a chronic problem for the national economy: Mustafa Kamal

Senior Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P) leader Syed Mustafa Kamal expressed concern over the mounting problems in Pakistan’s energy sector, stating that the annual circular debt now exceeds the entire national development budget.

Kamal made these remarks during a press conference at the MQM-P central election office in Karachi on Thursday. He stressed that the MQM-P is a responsible political party that not only identifies problems but also offers practical solutions.

He pointed out that all over the world, citizens have the opportunity to choose from many electricity suppliers, allowing them to select the service that best suits their needs.

In Pakistan, however, each city is monopolized by a single electricity supplier, leading to serious customer dissatisfaction and exploitation.

The former mayor of Karachi criticized the monopoly of these companies, stating that the lives of citizens have become unbearable due to the lack of competition.

Read also: Reforms in the energy sector and state-owned enterprises are underway

He noted that law-abiding citizens who pay their bills regularly are unfairly charged by others for electricity theft, and restricting electricity supply is a way to control these losses.

He said that in Karachi, residents have been suffering from power cuts lasting up to 18 hours, affecting even those who pay high bills.

Although the MQM-P is not opposed to privatisation of distribution companies, Kamal stressed the importance of examining the objectives behind such privatisation.

He cited the example of the K-Electric company, whose consequences continue to have a negative impact on society, he said.

Kamal suggested that multiple electricity suppliers be licensed across the country, similar to the telecom sector. This would ensure both quality and affordability, preventing any single company from becoming a monopoly.

He also suggested that Pakistan should work with institutions and friendly countries to restructure its dollar debt repayments.