A joint investigation team (JIT) — a multi-agency probe panel — has identified former finance minister Abdul Hafeez Shaikh as the alleged mastermind of the One Constitution Avenue scandal in Islamabad, while also naming several former Capital Development Authority (CDA) officials for alleged involvement.
Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal confirmed the team’s findings at a press conference and said the government would not shield anyone linked to the affair. The One Constitution Avenue scandal centres on a high-profile Islamabad project that, according to the investigation report, hurt public finances while private interests gained.
What the investigation report says
According to the investigation report, Shaikh worked in coordination with CDA officials. Those named include former CDA chairman Kamran Lashari, as well as Faisal Awan and Azhar Ali Chaudhry.
The JIT found that the project caused financial losses to the national exchequer — the state’s public treasury — while allowing individuals and their associates to secure undue benefits. It recommended blacklisting Shaikh from participation in government projects.
The team also called on the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), Pakistan’s main anti-corruption body, to speed up its inquiry and file a reference within three months. A reference is a formal accountability case put before the relevant forum. The JIT further recommended deeper investigation and action against those found responsible.
Government response and next steps
Confirming the findings, Ahsan Iqbal said no one involved in the One Constitution Avenue scandal would receive official protection. He added that the government would arrange a transparent re-auction of the project so the process can be reopened under clearer rules.
That re-auction, together with any NAB reference filed within the three-month window urged by the JIT, will shape how the case moves from findings to formal accountability. Officials have not yet detailed a public timetable beyond that recommendation.
Aasan alfaaz mein
JIT ne pehle finance minister Abdul Hafeez Shaikh ko One Constitution Avenue scandal ka alleged mastermind qaraar diya hai. CDA ke kuch pehle officers ka bhi naam aaya hai. Hukumat kehti hai ke kisi ko protection nahi milegi aur project dubara transparent auction hoga. NAB se teen mahine mein reference file karne ko kaha gaya hai.
