By Naveed Siddiqui
ISLAMABAD: In a significant development, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Anti-Corruption Circle has initiated a thorough investigation into irregularities and corrupt practices by former CEO of the Drug Regulatory Authority (DRAP).
The focus of the inquiry involves Sheikh Akhter Hussain, the former CEO of the Drug Regulation Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), and several other individuals.
In a letter written by Deputy Director FIA, Afzal KHÄÑ Niazi revealed that the investigation delves into the promotion of Mr. Asim Rauf, questioning the legitimacy of his promotion from RO-13 (BPS-18) to RO-14 (BPS-19) without proper recommendations and qualifications.
Authorities are seeking clarity on the date of DRAP’s promulgation.
Scrutiny is placed on the appointments made by Sh. Akhtar Hussain, including Directors, Federal Drug Inspectors, Government Analysts, and other positions, raising concerns of potential abuse of power.
The investigation seeks to unravel the intricacies of Sh. Akhtar Hussain’s career, including the circumstances surrounding his service continuation after NAB Corruption References.
The letter sought salary records, PhD allowance approvals, and the suspension and subsequent restoration of Sh. Akhtar Hussain in 2013 and 2019, respectively.
Investigating the formulation of the Medicine Pricing Policy, price hikes during Sh. Akhtar Hussain’s tenure, and the National Formulary of Pakistan has also been sought
Details of companies linked to the case, such as M/s Friends Pharma, Mac & Rain Pharma, Sunrise Pharma, and others, are under scrutiny. It’s worth mention that Sh. Akhtar Hussain was arrest by FIA last week asking with vice chancellor of a university in a fake degree case and are currently on remand with the investigation agency.
Pakistan Young Pharmacist Association appreciates the enormous effort of Mr. Rana Abdul Jabar ADG North FIA, Mr. Muhammad Afzal Niazi DD and Mr. Kashif Riaz Awan SHO ACC FIA and entire team of FIA, which made a dead person alive and arrested him, PYPA is having very high hopes that FIA, NAB and Government of Pakistan would eradicate corruption from DRAP and Health Sector for the lives of 250 million Pakistanis and availability of Quality medicines and economical Prices.
