Committee Led by Finance Minister Ishaq Dar to Conduct Interviews for NBP President Slot on Saturday

A committee headed by Finance Minister Ishaq Dar has been tasked with conducting interviews to fill the position of President of the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) on Saturday. This crucial appointment holds significant importance for the financial sector of the country and the future direction of the NBP.

Sources close to the matter have revealed that the Finance Division has shortlisted several candidates for the coveted position. Among the contenders are acting NBP President Rehmat Ali Hasnie, Adnan Alley Agha, Mudassar H. Khan, Tahir Yaqub Bhatti, Tariq Ghuman, Usman Shahid, and Javed Qureshi. These candidates have been carefully selected based on their qualifications, experience, and suitability for the role.

Interestingly, the acting NBP president, Rehmat Ali Hasnie, who was not shortlisted in the previous appointment process, has emerged as a favorite for the President/CEO position. This shift in perception can be attributed to his strong connections within the allied parties of the coalition government, which have bolstered his candidacy.

However, it is important to note that Rehmat Ali Hasnie’s past has come under scrutiny. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has raised audit objections against him, alleging that he obtained a promotion to the rank of SEVP through deceitful means. Additionally, Hasnie has been linked to the HASCOL scandal, further tarnishing his reputation. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has also directed NBP to provide details of Hasnie and other officers in relation to an ongoing investigation into illegal appointments.

Another candidate, Adnan Alley Agha, who previously held the position of SEVP & Group Chief/Chief Risk Officer, Risk Management Group, has also faced criticism. The Auditor General of Pakistan (AGP) raised audit concerns regarding Agha’s appointment, citing irregularities and violations of rules/policies. The AGP deemed the payment of pay and allowances amounting to Rs. 24.208 million as irregular and unjustified.

Usman Shahid, an ex-SEVP of NBP, is another candidate in the running. However, his involvement in the HASCOL scandal and his brief period in FIA custody have raised concerns about his suitability for the position. Despite this, banking sector officials believe that Shahid possesses the necessary skills and experience to excel in the role of NBP President.

It is worth mentioning that the Ministry of Finance had previously proposed Adnan Alley Agha for the NBP president position, but the cabinet rejected his appointment and instructed the Finance Division to restart the selection process. This decision reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring a transparent and merit-based appointment process for such a critical position.

As the committee led by Finance Minister Ishaq Dar conducts the interviews, the future leadership of the National Bank of Pakistan hangs in the balance. The selection of a competent and qualified individual for this role is crucial for the stability and growth of the banking sector in the country. All eyes are on the committee’s decision, as it will shape the direction of the NBP and its contribution to the nation’s financial landscape.