Islamabad, Brig. (retd) Aslam Khan, Chairman of Pakistan Economy Watch (PEW), raised alarms on Monday about the increasing influence of business mafias in Pakistan’s political and economic systems, warning of potential repercussions for the country’s economy.

According to Pakistan Economy Watch, Aslam Khan highlighted the extensive investments being made by various business mafias in politics, aiming to regain control over the country’s economic system at the expense of the general public. He expressed concern that if these groups are not curtailed, the Pakistani economy could face serious destabilization, and already high inflation levels could soar further.

Khan pointed out that recent actions against the smuggling of essential commodities like dollars, oil, wheat, sugar, rice, and steps against foreigners residing illegally in Pakistan have temporarily bolstered the faltering economy and improved the value of the rupee. These measures initially deterred mafia activities, but Khan cautioned that these groups are preparing to resume their operations post-elections, with some allegedly involving key politicians and top bureaucracy in their schemes.

He emphasized that these mafias provide financial support across political parties, ensuring their protection regardless of which government is in power. Khan noted the pattern in Pakistan of ruling parties not completing their five-year term and the subsequent governments failing to take decisive action against these influential groups.

Khan credited the army’s bold steps in curbing the activities of mafias, particularly highlighting the prevention of sugar smuggling and export by the sugar mills mafia, and discouraging the smuggling of dollars, ghee, rice, and other items. He warned that if the army withdraws from these issues after the elections, the mafia groups might resume their activities, endangering the country’s economic stability and security.

Khan concluded by stating that as long as businesspeople play a significant role in forming the government, they will prioritize corporate interests over national interests. He underscored the long-standing issue of business mafias infiltrating industries through intimidation, violence, and bribery, often underestimated despite its severe impact on businesses and society.