NAB Issues Notice to Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab Over Alleged Mega Corruption in KMC Projects

Photo File (Internet)

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has issued a formal notice to Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab in connection with alleged “mega corruption” in development projects undertaken by the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC). According to ARY News, the inquiry pertains to development works carried out between 2020 and 2025.

Confirming the receipt of the notice, Mayor Murtaza Wahab said he would submit all required details to NAB, while firmly rejecting the allegations. He termed the claims baseless and insisted that there was no truth to the accusations mentioned in the notice.

Speaking to ARY News, the mayor stated that large-scale development work had resumed in Karachi after a long gap. He expressed disappointment that instead of appreciating infrastructure initiatives worth billions of rupees, authorities had chosen to issue a notice.
“Those who work are questioned, while those who do nothing are never held accountable,” Wahab remarked, adding that his intentions regarding Karachi’s development were transparent.

NAB Karachi, in its notice, has sought complete records of both completed and ongoing KMC development projects over the five-year period. The bureau stated that the inquiry was initiated following a complaint alleging corruption in multiple projects.

Earlier, Mayor Wahab highlighted that 2026 marked the implementation phase of the Pakistan Peoples Party’s manifesto. He announced that KMC would spend Rs700 million on development works in Karachi’s Old City area. He also revealed that the restoration of the historic Lea Market would be completed within three months.

Addressing Karachi’s long-standing water issues, Wahab said work on the K-IV water project augmentation had begun and pledged to resolve the city’s chronic water shortage. He acknowledged the presence of water theft and illegal hydrants, announcing the formation of a tribunal to take action against illegal water connections.

“We are accused and even threatened daily over development works,” the mayor said, adding that strict action would be taken against those involved in water theft. He also criticized town administrations for collecting taxes while claiming a lack of funds, asserting that KMC itself was not facing any financial shortfall.