MPs decide to summon minister of refugees

KABUL has decided to summon Minister of Refugees and Repatriation Jamahir Anwary over widespread corruption in the ministry, an official said on Wednesday.

Lower house secretary, Eng. Syed Ikram, told Pajhwok Afghan News the decision had been taken by assembly commission heads in response to summons forms submitted by 56 lawmakers.

He said Anwary would be summoned on November 9 to answer queries from MPs regarding embezzlement of funds for clearing the ministry’s power bills, official trip expenses and other purposes.

Ikram added there had also been anomalies in recruitment to the ministry, which had failed to address the plight of Afghan refugees abroad.

In line with the relevant constitutional provision, any minister could be summoned to the house based a proposal from 20 percent of legislators (50 MPs).

If the cabinet member fails to offer a convincing explanation, lawmakers may consider bringing a no-confidence vote against him/her.

mud