KARACHI: Sindh Labour Minister Saeed Ghani has claimed that he was offered a monthly bribe of Rs50 million in 2016 and vowed that he would never compromise on corruption to protect his political position.
Addressing the All Pakistan Women Workers Conference at the Arts Council Karachi, Ghani said he rejected the offer when he was serving as Adviser on Labour and refused to allow individuals accused of corruption to return to influential positions.
“I cannot blacken my face to save a ministry, nor can I reinstall thieves to their former positions,” he said.
The minister alleged that more than Rs20 billion worth of corruption had taken place within institutions under his department. He said court rulings had established that certain individuals claiming to represent workers were not legitimate labour representatives.
“We are not accepting pressure and want those responsible to be punished,” Ghani said, adding that he would rather give up ministerial office than compromise on accountability.
Speaking about workers’ rights, the labour minister said the government alone could not ensure compliance with the minimum wage law. He urged workers to report violations and refuse employment that does not meet the legally mandated wage.
“If workers are not being paid the minimum wage, they should raise their voice and inform the authorities so action can be taken,” he said.
Ghani also highlighted the role of women in the workforce and shared his personal background, saying his grandmother, despite being uneducated, worked hard to support and educate her family.
He reiterated that the provincial government remains committed to protecting workers’ rights and addressing longstanding issues within labour institutions.
