ISLAMABAD (LAHORE MIRROR) — The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has summoned former federal minister for communications Asad Mahmood in connection with an investigation into alleged irregularities in recruitment at Pakistan Post during his tenure from 2022 to 2023.
According to a notice issued by NAB’s Rawalpindi office, Mr Mahmood has been directed to appear before the bureau’s investigation team on November 10 at 11am.
The investigation concerns alleged violations of recruitment rules and appointments made beyond the number of vacancies approved for Pakistan Post.
The notice states that the Establishment Division had authorised recruitment against 3,938 posts. However, 4,252 appointments were allegedly made, exceeding the approved strength.
NAB has also alleged that 2,646 appointments were made against posts that had already been abolished, contrary to the directions of a cabinet committee.
The bureau is examining claims that permanent appointments were made despite recommendations for contractual hiring, potentially placing an additional financial burden on the department.
Other aspects of the inquiry include alleged political considerations in the selection process, the use of forged documents, recruitment of candidates above the prescribed age limit and violations of the provincial domicile quota.
NAB has warned that failure to comply with the summons could lead to legal action under Section 31 of the National Accountability Ordinance, 1999.
Separately, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) is also probing alleged irregularities in Pakistan Post recruitment. Its Anti-Corruption Circle in Islamabad has issued a separate notice to Mr Mahmood, asking him to record his statement in connection with the matter.
Both agencies are investigating alleged appointments beyond sanctioned vacancies and possible violations of recruitment procedures.
