Saturday, November 13, 2010

Gilgit Baltistan: Aga Khan Foundation involved in Corruption

The Chairperson of Gilgit-Baltistan United Movement (GBUM), Manzoor Parwana, has accused the so-called democratic government of Gilgit-Baltistan, which was established a year ago, of corruption, nepotism and incompetence. He was addressing a press conference at Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan on November 11, 2010 to discuss the issue of ‘taxation without representation’.

He condemned the authorities for imposing tax on the poverty stricken masses and failing to address the concerns of the victims of flashfloods and landslides. He said, “GBUM has decided to call an All Parties Conference (APC) to discuss economic and political matters concerning the natives of the region”.

He accused the authorities of providing jobs to a selective group of people who belong to the ruling party, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), while ignoring the merit standards. He said, “Officials have been directed to induct those carrying a recommendation letter from the Chief Minister, S. Mehdi Shah. Same trend is now followed by the non-profit organizations like Aga Khan Foundation (AKF). This way, classism is being promoted to benefit a few who impose their will upon the majority. These people are opportunist and only loyal to the ruling party in Islamabad rather than the natives of Gilgit-Baltistan.” In the end, Parwana announced to issue white paper with information on corruption cases pertaining to the Aga Khan Rural Support Program, a project of AKF.

Issued
GBUM

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