LAHORE: Former prime minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has filed a reply to the Federal Investigation Agency with regard to the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan scam.

In the reply filed through his counsel, Mr Gilani said the appointments and transfers of various officers he had ordered during his tenure were strictly in accordance with powers conferred upon him as the premier of the country.

“The acts done and duties performed by me in this connection are fully protected under Article 248(1) of the Constitution of Islamic Republic of Pakistan,” he said.

So far as the allegations regarding monetary benefits obtained by the persons mentioned in the FIA questionnaire sent to Mr Gilani, the former prime minister said he was ignorant about them.

“These allegations are based on self assumptions. The TDAP falls directly under the ministry of commerce and being executive head of the country I was not supposed to be aware of the activities of each and every citizen of Pakistan. However, if some one has committed any wrong I can in no way be held responsible for that,” Mr Gilani stated.

He said it seemed that a “conspiracy” was being hatched against him.

Published in Dawn, June 1st, 2014