Energy Minister Awais Leghari stirred concern on Thursday when he revealed he was experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 during a National Assembly session.
Leghari disclosed on the floor of the lower house, “I am unwell, feeling symptoms of Covid, but haven’t tested yet,”
The deputy speaker questioned the minister’s intentions: “Are you scaring us that you have contracted Covid?” Leghari explained his presence by expressing his dedication to the parliamentary process, saying, “I have come to the Parliament out of respect for the house to answer all questions.” When asked if he would shake hands with opposition members, he humorously responded, “I cordially want to hug the opposition leader.”
Read: Energy Minister Awais Leghari Promises Permanent Relief from High Electricity Bills
Following insistence from fellow members, Leghari exited the assembly.
Due to controversial capacity charges to Independent Power Producers (IPPs), the energy minister has been a focal point in media discussions. He serves as the government’s lead on energy sector reforms. He recently mentioned initiating discussions with Chinese firms to address these issues. “We will try to reduce power tariffs after considering all relevant matters,” he asserted.
In talks with the media, Leghari elaborated that the government had presented its reform plans and energy vision to the National Energy Administration of China. He highlighted that these discussions include re-profiling debt between $8.5 and $9 billion, aiming to lower electricity costs and boost demand.
