The Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) has finally gotten a new managing director, as former MD Rasheed Lone had to leave the office on Tuesday. Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani appointed Arif Hameed as the acting MD of the company, a move that came as a surprise for many, as the deputy managing director was ignored despite being the senior most.
Rasheed Lone was appointed the SNGPL MD in February 2001 and was the only person who served the seat for more than 10 years. “It was a record tenure,” an official said. According to SNGPL sources, Lone had cordial relations with all governments he worked with. “He was appointed under the military regime and remained a favourite throughout his tenure. Whether it was the government of Zafarullah Khan Jamali, Shaukat Aziz or Yousaf Raza Gilani, Lone remained the SNGPL MD and pleased all,” a senior SNGPL official said, adding that it was a quality of the former MD that he developed good relations with all through better service.
He said despite being 68 years old, Lone was active and was expecting another extension. The source said had there been no intervention by the Supreme Court, Lone could have got another extension. However, the appointment of Arif Hameed has come as a surprise, as once again, merit was ignored while appointing him the acting MD.
