Karachi: Former Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and ex-President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Senator Haji Ghulam Ali, has called for action against current FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh. He accused Sheikh of selling goods meant for the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) in local markets of Sindh. Haji Ghulam Ali claimed that five trucks carrying edible oil and other goods, originally intended for FATA, were intercepted in Hyderabad, Sindh, but were released after alleged bribery during a raid by the Federal Board of Revenue's customs department. He demanded legal action against Sheikh.

According to a statement by Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Haji Ghulam Ali expressed his concerns while addressing a reception hosted by former FPCCI President Mian Nasir Hayat Mago. During the event, Ali criticized orders issued by Sheikh, which allegedly restricted access to certain FPCCI office areas in Islamabad and Karachi. He emphasized that even the Secretary-General of FPCCI was barred from entry, describing the situation as unacceptable.

Ali also highlighted the presence of multiple scandals involving Atif Ikram Sheikh, urging government agencies to take appropriate measures. Former FPCCI President and Chairman of the Businessmen Panel (BMP) Pakistan, Mian Anjum Nisar, shared insights into the recent Lahore Chamber of Commerce elections, where his panel achieved a significant victory despite opposition.

Speeches at the event included remarks from former FPCCI Presidents and business leaders, who voiced their concerns regarding current FPCCI leadership and operations. Anjum Nisar criticized the government-affiliated group within FPCCI, alleging it prioritizes personal interests over the welfare of the business community.

Mian Nasir Hayat Mago, another former FPCCI President, noted complaints about the elected president’s frequent absences and the unresolved issues faced by the business community. He pointed out that the focus seemed to be on customs-related matters in Karachi, with allegations of corruption within the Customs House.

Abdul Rahim Jano and Khawaja Shah Zeeb Akram urged for active participation in upcoming elections, expressing confidence in their leadership's ability to strengthen their position in future FPCCI elections.