Sindh CM Murad Ali Shah Acquitted in Nooriabad Power Project Reference

In a significant development, an accountability court in Islamabad has acquitted Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and other accused in the Nooriabad Power Project reference. The court, led by Accountability Judge Nasir Javed Rana, approved the National Accountability Bureau’s (NAB) request to withdraw the reference.

Case Background

Murad Ali Shah faced charges of abuse of power in disbursing funds for energy-related projects in Sindh. NAB alleged that billions of public funds were embezzled for the Nooriabad Power Company and Sindh Transmission and Dispatch Company.

Acquittal

Barrister Qasim Nawaz Abbasi represented the accused. The Sindh CM had challenged the reference, seeking acquittal. He argued that:

• The project’s approval was given by the provincial government
• Abuse of authority charges were invalid

NAB’s Allegations

Murad Ali Shah was among 17 individuals nominated in the graft reference. NAB claimed that:

• Public funds worth billions were embezzled
• Funds were misused for Nooriabad Power Company and Sindh Transmission and Dispatch Company
• Corruption and nepotism were involved

Implications

The acquittal has significant implications for:

• Sindh politics: Murad Ali Shah’s continued leadership
• Accountability cases: Emphasizes the need for robust evidence
• Provincial development: Nooriabad Power Project’s future

Reactions

• Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leaders have welcomed the verdict
• Opposition parties have expressed concerns over NAB’s withdrawal of the reference
• Legal experts see this as a victory for due process

Conclusion

The acquittal of Murad Ali Shah and others in the Nooriabad Power Project reference raises important questions about accountability and governance in Pakistan. As the country navigates complex political and economic challenges, this verdict serves as a reminder of the need for transparency and effective institutions.

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