Asif raises alarm over bureaucrats settling abroad

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has raised concerns over the alleged relocation plans of senior Pakistani bureaucrats, claiming that some government officials prepared to settle abroad while still serving in public office.

In a statement shared on social media platform X on Sunday, Asif said Pakistan had many capable and honest civil servants. However, he alleged that a number of officials had established plans to make Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom and other European countries their permanent homes.

He particularly highlighted Portugal as a destination for what he described as an exodus of bureaucrats in recent years. The minister said he had raised the issue on social media several months ago.

Asif claimed that some officials linked to the matter had held influential positions and remained close to successive governments. He questioned whether civil servants who enjoyed the privileges and authority of public office remained fully committed to Pakistan while preparing to move abroad.

The defence minister also alleged that an individual involved in facilitating permanent residency arrangements had fled after collecting large sums of money from several influential bureaucrats. However, he did not disclose the individual’s identity or provide further details about the alleged transactions.

Asif questioned the conduct of officials who had benefited from senior government positions and the opportunities associated with public service. He also raised concerns about whether their long-term plans reflected a commitment to Pakistan or an intention to settle overseas.

The minister’s remarks have renewed debate over the overseas settlement plans of serving and retired civil servants, particularly those who have held influential government positions.

However, the allegations have not been independently verified. Asif did not name the officials allegedly involved or provide documentary evidence to substantiate the claims regarding residency arrangements in Portugal.