PESHAWAR: Adviser to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor on Information and Public Relations Samar Haroon Bilour on Saturday expressed serious concern about the alleged Rs18.46 billion financial irregularities in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Economic Zones Development and Management Company (EZDMC) and called for an immediate and impartial inquiry and accountability in accordance with the law.

In a statement, Ms Samar said the findings highlighted in the audit report warranted serious attention of authorities, so a comprehensive and transparent investigation was necessary to establish the facts, determine responsibility and ensure that any violations identified are dealt with in accordance with the law.

“Public resources are a trust, and transparency and accountability in their use must be ensured at all costs,” she said.

The adviser complained about the alleged irregularities relating to the non-recovery of dues on industrial land and matters involving government land and emphasised that authorities must clarify those issues and take appropriate action in light of the investigation’s findings.

Adviser Samar says audit report findings warrant serious attention

She called for a detailed review of audit observations concerning potential outstanding dues of approximately Rs14 billion.

Ms Samar stressed the importance of recovering government revenue, safeguarding public assets and strengthening financial management within public-sector institutions.

She said allegations of financial irregularities must be examined objectively, on the basis of evidence and in accordance with established legal procedures. An impartial inquiry, she added, was essential to establish the facts and ensure the protection of public funds.

The adviser also highlighted the need to address weaknesses in administrative controls, planning and financial oversight to improve institutional performance, prevent financial losses and ensure the effective use of public resources.

She said safeguarding the resources of the people of the province was a fundamental responsibility of all government institutions.

Ms Samar called on authorities to fulfil their obligations, uphold transparency and ensure accountability in the management of public funds.

She said protecting every rupee of the exchequer and ensuring effective oversight of government institutions were essential to safeguarding the public interest.

Published in Dawn, October 25th, 2026