An investigation into alleged corruption in the procurement of vaccines for Hajj pilgrims and Umrah visitors has reportedly extended to the office of Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal, with sources saying an investigating agency has sought permission to arrest him.
The probe concerns a five-year contract, worth Rs10.445 billion, to supply meningitis and influenza vaccines to pilgrims, Umrah visitors and other Pakistanis travelling abroad. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has reportedly identified Rs2.445 billion in excess costs. It alleges the vaccines were bought at rates higher than those fixed by the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan, causing a heavy loss to the national exchequer.
The FIA has arrested three officials in the case: Border Health Services Pakistan Director Dr Abid Hussain Shah, former director Pradeep Kumar and medical officer Dr Syed Ghulam Murtaza Shah. Investigators are examining the procurement method, tender preparation, selection of the private company and the stages of contract approval.
According to the FIA, the contract was awarded to Pharma Connect, a private company, after only one firm reportedly submitted a bid. The agency alleges the contract was advanced without a market survey, independent price determination or comparative assessment.
Pradeep Kumar is accused of influencing the tender process by changing the composition and leadership of the procurement committee. Dr Murtaza Shah is accused of facilitating the selection of the company, while Dr Abid Hussain Shah faces allegations of irregularities in approving the procurement.
Sources said investigators are now trying to establish at what level the contract was approved, what role senior Ministry of Health officials played, and whether the federal minister’s office interfered in the process or issued instructions. The roles of the minister’s coordinator and his former secretary are also under examination, and the inquiry could extend beyond them.
Sources claimed the chances of action against the minister have increased, although the final decision rests with the relevant authorities. If permission is granted, the case would reach a key member of the federal cabinet.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took notice of the matter and formed a five-member high-level inquiry committee. It is tasked with reviewing all stages of the procurement, the financial aspects and violations of rules and regulations. The next phase of the investigation will determine whether responsibility is limited to junior officials or extends to the ministry’s top tier.
