Anwarul Haq Vows to Fight Corruption in Azad Kashmir

Rathoa Hariyam Bridge Project Hit by Corruption, Says PM

Islamabad-(Mudassar Iqbal)_Chaudhry Anwarul Haq, the Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir, recently shared his thoughts and experiences in an exclusive interview with Khawaja Abdul Mateen, providing valuable insights into his vision and leadership.

From the onset, Anwarul Haq addressed the challenges he faces, stating that some individuals wish to replace him, but their motivations are not driven by his performance. “It is the wish of many of our friends to drop me and sit in my place,” he said, adding that this desire has nothing to do with his performance as Prime Minister.

According to Anwarul Haq, these individuals have a “brief manifesto” to oust him and take his position. He described the coalition government as an “unnatural political alliance,” where political activists find satisfaction only when they have control. This, he believes, hinders the government’s ability to effectively serve the people.

Undeterred by opposition, Anwarul Haq emphasized his commitment to fighting corruption, comparing his efforts to a car collision with the existing corrupt system. “I collided with a corrupt and rotten system of government,” he stated, highlighting various reforms aimed at increasing transparency and efficiency.

One such reform involves auctioning old vehicles and banning the purchase of new ones, thereby reducing unnecessary expenses. Additionally, Anwarul Haq has stabilized institutions such as the NTS and Public Service Commission, ensuring they function effectively. Funds previously wasted on unnecessary projects have been redirected to the social sector, benefiting the people of Azad Kashmir.

The Prime Minister also discussed the Social Protection Fund, established to support thousands of people disabled in the earthquake. The fund includes five types of beneficiaries, including eunuchs, and has allocated 10 billion rupees. An Act has been approved to prevent misuse of funds, impressing international NGOs with the government’s transparency.

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Anwarul Haq explained that collecting data on beneficiaries was a significant challenge. However, with the help of technology and dedicated officials, the process is nearing completion. He assured that any wrongdoing in the verification process would be addressed, and those found guilty would face consequences.

Regarding the Rathoa Hariyam Bridge, Anwarul Haq revealed that the project was initially estimated to cost 4 billion rupees but became embroiled in corruption, inflating costs to 12 billion. He discovered that a revised design using concrete could reduce costs to 5 billion rupees. The Prime Minister has taken a personal interest in the project, ensuring its completion without further delays or corruption.

Anwarul Haq emphasized his dedication to serving the people, working without a salary as the state has provided for him. He prioritizes transparency and accountability, determined to complete his term and bring positive change to Azad Kashmir.

In the interview, Anwarul Haq also mentioned that banks have collected 54 crore rupees for Zakat in Azad Kashmir, but officials were misusing funds meant for beneficiaries. He stopped the honorarium of those involved, prompting opposition in the assembly. However, the opposition withdrew their dissenting note after Hafiz Hamid Raza intervened.

This decision, Anwarul Haq explained, was not taken lightly. He understood that stopping the honorarium would affect some individuals but believed it necessary to prevent further corruption. He emphasized that no one has resigned from their responsibilities following this decision, indicating its importance.

Anwarul Haq’s leadership and vision for Azad Kashmir are shaped by his experiences in various constitutional positions. He remains committed to serving the people and ensuring that the government’s resources are utilized efficiently.

Throughout the interview, Anwarul Haq’s passion for reform and dedication to the people of Azad Kashmir shone through. Despite facing opposition, he remains resolute in his mission to bring positive change to the region