Punjab PAC orders probe into 25 irregularity cases from Usman Buzdar’s tenure

LAHORE: The Punjab Public Accounts Committee (PAC-III) has ordered an investigation into 25 cases of financial irregularities allegedly committed during the tenure of the then Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar from 2018 to 2022.

According to official sources, the directive was issued after the audit report for 2021–22 revealed serious violations in the District Health Authorities, including illegal procurements and irregular recruitments.

The audit findings indicated that medicines and medical equipment were purchased at prices up to three times higher than market rates, raising concerns over large-scale misuse of public funds.

The committee has instructed the Secretary of Health to complete investigations into all 25 cases within 30 days and submit a detailed report.

PAC members emphasised that all officials involved in financial misconduct would be held accountable, and urged the Health Department to ensure transparency and compliance with procurement laws.

Earlier, according to a report, allegations of financial irregularities amounting to Rs99 million surfaced from the tenure of former Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar, ARY News reported citing a report by the Punjab Audit Department.

The report highlights alleged mismanagement of funds in government schools in Dera Ghazi Khan during the fiscal year 2020-21. It claims that funds were spent without obtaining proper approval from relevant authorities.

The audit findings reveal that the District Education Authority allegedly spent Rs99 million on purchasing furniture and other essential items. However, the report states that the purchase and delivery of furniture and supplies in DG Khan could not be verified.

Sources further indicate that despite the Punjab Audit Department’s queries, the District Education Authority has not responded or clarified the reported discrepancies.