ISLAMABAD: The federal government’s move to appoint a new Member (Gas) to the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) has raised concerns over a potential conflict of interest, officials at the Petroleum Division confirmed.
Three candidates have been shortlisted, including a serving Senior General Manager at Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) — a company directly regulated by Ogra. Critics argue that such selections undermine the regulator’s independence. Similar objections were raised earlier when a senior official from Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) was appointed as Ogra’s Member (Finance).
Former Member (Gas) Mansoor Muzaffar Ali, in a letter dated May 20, 2024, urged Ogra’s chairman to strictly apply the conflict-of-interest clause of the Ogra Ordinance, 2002, which prohibits appointments of individuals with direct links to regulated entities without parliamentary approval.
Legal experts warn that any appointment in breach of the law could be challenged in court and declared void, further denting Ogra’s credibility.
Secretary Cabinet Division Kamran Ali Afzal, when contacted, said the case is still under review and that potential conflicts are factored into the selection process.
Ogra regulates gas pricing, distribution, and performance standards, making the independence of its members vital to maintaining regulatory integrity and public trust.
