20000216123 chairmen of zakat body dismissed in Peshawar

IQBAL KHATTAK

PESHAWAR: The NWFP government, pursuing its anti-graft policy, on Tuesday removed 123 chairmen of local zakat committees of Peshawar district on what it said "corruption" and "illegibility" charges.

According to a spokesman, the provincial government dismissed eight chairmen on corruption and 115 on other charges. The reason for their dismissal was other than corruption "they were either illiterate or government servants".

Decision to remove the chairmen was taken at a quarterly meeting of zakat committee of Peshawar district with minister for religious affairs Qari Roohullah in the chair on Monday, the spokesman added.

The decision is in line with the Supreme Court's order that "no illiterate or government employee" could lead the zakat committee.

The spokesman added that the vacancies created by the ouster of the chairmen would be filled through election shortly.

Those who were removed on corruption charges included zakat committee of Dheri Baghbanan No 1, Pajaggi, Jogian Kalan, Mashu Gagar No 1, Shaikhan, Hasanzai, Tehkal Payan No 2 and Circular Road No 1.