ISLAMABAD: Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar said that state institutions have taken steps to secure Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and changed some standard operating procedures (SOPs) after multiple audio leaks featuring incumbent prime minister surfaced on social media.

A recording of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif started doing rounds where he was discussing with an unidentified official possibility of facilitating import of Indian machinery for a power project that was a concern of PML-N Vice President Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s son-in-law, Raheel. On Sunday, further recordings surfaced, which were shared on social media by several PTI leaders, concerning former finance minister Miftah Ismail and resignations of PTI lawmakers from National Assembly.

A day ago, another leak surfaced but this time, former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his much-touted ‘threat cypher’ were subject of leaked clip. Tarar said that talks regarding a “cleansing” process were underway, elaborating that government was mulling on steps that should be taken in future. He explained that basic SOPs were already in place for “sensitive buildings”, adding that orders have further been given to make security measures effective and prevent any such breaches in future. “It will be an effort to introduce a culture and environment, not just in PMO, but in all departments where you can ensure that sensitive information will not be leaked.” Tarar also castigated PTI chief over yesterday’s audio leak.

Published in The Daily National Courier, September, 30 2022

Like Business on Facebook, follow @DailyNCourier on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.