Climate Ministry Officials Face Scrutiny for Baku Trip Funded by Public Money

Baku Trip

Controversy surrounds Pakistan attendance at COP29 in Baku. Find out how loaned funds are allegedly being used to cover expenses for over three dozen officials.

COP29 in Baku

Over 3 dozen officials from Pakistan Ministry of Climate change including a cabinet members daughter are allegedly set to attend COP29 In Baku on Monday November 11, 2024. With expenses covered by loaned funds. Meanwhile an IMF delegation is scheduled to arrive in Pakistan he same day to discuss a 1 Billion dollar climate financing package.

Sources of News

Sources told us that the Ministry of Climate Change in using a substantial portion of the National Disaster Risk Management Fund (NDRMF) to finance the officials trip to the COP29 conference in Baku and Azerbaijan. This trip is expected to cost the national treasury over 1 million dollar.

The PM coordinator on climate change has allegedly included a cabinet member daughter in the delegation. Sources suggests the current administration is pursuing personal interests.

According to the sources the government seriousness in addressing climate issues can be questioned as many of the ministry officials lack the necessary experience to engage effectively at an international level. This lack of expertise could hinder Pakistan ability to secure favorable outcome or make meaningful contributions to global climate discussions.

Adding to concerns the government commitment to addressing climate change in under scrutiny given the absence of a full-time minister and a designated secretary for the climate ministry.

The NDRMF a Pakistan government-owned non-profit funded by loans from the World Bank and other multilateral institutions for ecosystem restoration appears to be facing mismanagement issues with funds reportedly being redirected.

Sources also disclosed that Pakistan climate efforts have previously been affected by financial mismanagement last year COP28 Participation involved a similar wastage of millions of dollars with minimal presence at the pavilion. 

Sources further disclosed that the PM coordinator on climate change has allegedly secured a lucrative contract with an institute for an associate highlighting cronyism in international appointments. Moreover a private Islamabad based think tank is reportedly playing an increasing role in the ministry decision making due to the connections between the PM coordinator and top at the think tank with contracts frequently directed toward this organization.

Additionally individuals close to senior officials in the ministry are allegedly selling COP29 badges to private organizations and individuals. These badges authorized government negotiators and experts should represents the country at such high-level forums.

conclusion

The planned participation of over 3 dozen officials from Pakistan  Ministry of Climate Change at COP29 in Baku has raised significant concerns about the responsible use of public Money and the country's commitment to climate initiatives. The reported use of the National Disaster Risk Management Fund (NDRMF) for this trip alongside allegations of nepotism and lack of expertise among delegates, underscores potential mismanagement within the ministry. The situation is further complicated by the absence of full-time leadership which casts doubt on the government ability to address pressing climate issues effectively.

The inclusion of individuals with personal connections and the alleged sale of COP29 badges to private entities signal deeper problems related to governance and transparency. These issues highlight the need for accountability and a reassessment of priorities to ensure that future participation in global climate conferences serves the nation environmental and strategic interests rather than personal or political gain.