ISLAMABAD: A complaint has been lodged with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the relevant authorities over the sale of 35 per cent of the gas from the Spinwam Gas Field by Mari Energies Ltd to unlicensed entities.

The complaint launched by the Organisation for Advancement & Safeguard of Industrial Sector (OASIS) claims that the bidding process violates a Council of Common Interests (CCI) decision.

According to the complaint, the CCI-approved framework permits E&P companies to sell up to 35pc of their gas share to third parties with a valid Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) licence via a competitive process.

The organisation alleges that Mari Energies’ advertisement omits mention of the requirement for an Ogra licence.

It allows participation by entities registered with tax authorities and listed on the Active Taxpayer List (ATL). Thus, it replaces the statutory licensing requirement with ordinary tax registration.

OASIS states that if remedial action is not taken, it may approach the court under Article 199 of the Constitution to challenge the advertisement and to restrain Mari Energies from proceeding further.

The complaint added that allowing unlicensed entities to participate is contrary to Ogra regulations and could undermine regulatory oversight.

Such a practice could create commercial rights for ineligible parties and distort competition against companies that already hold Ogra licences.

As a result, safety, technical and financial risks would arise in the sector.

The complaint, also forwarded to the army chief, the petroleum minister, the Ogra chairman, and others, requests that the advertisement for the sale of gas be declared illegal and void, and that the bidding process be immediately suspended.

OASIS has demanded the reissuance of tender documents that restrict participation to holders of valid Ogra licences, and directions to Ogra to ensure strict compliance with licensing requirements in future third-party gas sales.

Published in Dawn, June 11th, 2026