Khawaja Asif questions loyalty of bureaucrats living or planning to settle abroad

Federal Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has voiced alarm over claims that some high government officials were intending to live abroad permanently and questioned their allegiance to Pakistan while enjoying critical posts and state benefits.

“Pakistan’s bureaucracy has competent and honest officers but many officials have permanent residences in Canada, the United States, Britain and other European countries,” Asif said in a message on social media site X.

“Some bureaucrats were reportedly making arrangements to settle abroad permanently while in government service, thereby raising questions on their commitment to national interests and official responsibilities,” he stated.

The defence minister also cited Portugal as a destination linked to the relocation plans of senior personnel, saying he had broached the problem months ago.

“Some of the officials allegedly involved have maintained key posts and enjoyed government favour throughout successive administrations, Asif said.

He further said that a person who arranged for permanent residency for several rich officials had fled after getting huge amounts of money.

But his statement did not clarify the proof and identify the personnel concerned, the accused facilitator or the financial transactions.

Asif wondered whether the officials who had held prominent government positions, had gotten national accolades and enjoyed state support, had remained dedicated to Pakistan during their service.

He also voiced worries over whether some officials considered government work as a stop-gap before heading abroad.

The minister’s comments have once again highlighted issues including bureaucrats’ overseas residency plans, financial resources and state commitments.

The case may involve an open and fair review of the property of the relevant officials, sources of income, overseas interests and compliance with applicable regulations. Any claims of financial impropriety or conflict of interest would need to be evaluated on the basis of verifiable evidence and due process.