Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif demanded a thorough investigation regarding how Border Health Services Pakistan acquired influenza and meningococcal meningitis vaccines. He instructed a five-member group to review the financial details, pricing, and purchasing procedures, and to report back in 48 hours.
An October 16 notification from the Prime Minister's Office stated that the Cabinet Secretary will lead the panel. Other members include the Director General of the Intelligence Bureau, the Chief Executive Officer of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan, the Managing Director of the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority, and a representative from the Attorney General's Office.
The Public Procurement Regulatory Authority managing director acts as the secretary for the committee, and the Cabinet Division supplies secretariat assistance.
Authorities mentioned that the panel will convene for its initial meeting in Islamabad on Saturday morning. During this session, members plan to inspect purchasing records, interview involved officials, and investigate the situation.
This action follows a dispute regarding a public-private partnership agreement for vaccination services intended for Umrah and Haj pilgrims. Seven vaccine and pharmaceutical firms also initiated a legal challenge in the Islamabad High Court over the matter.
The complaining companies argue that the tender received just one bid and excluded qualified competitors from participating fairly, contesting both the contract award and the purchasing method.
Furthermore, the petitioners questioned if the deal secured proper approvals and satisfied legal standards for public-private partnerships. The Islamabad High Court requested relevant purchasing documents after issuing notices to the respondents. These claims are still awaiting a court ruling.
