The Sindh Ombudsman for Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace has ordered the immediate removal of Syed Moonis Alvi from his position as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of K-Electric (KE). The decision follows the confirmation of workplace harassment allegations made against him.
The order, issued by Justice (Retired) Shah Nawaz Tariq, also includes a financial penalty of Rs2.5 million, which must be paid to the complainant within one month. The payment is to be made through the registrar of the Ombudsman’s office.
According to the official document released on Thursday, the Ombudsman concluded that Moonis Alvi violated the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010, specifically under section 4(4)(ii)(c). The ruling stated:
“Moonis Abdullah Alvi is penalised under section 4(4)(ii)(c) of the Act, 2010, and is removed from his service instantly.”
Justice Tariq found that Alvi had harassed and mentally tortured the complainant. The decision emphasizes that if the fine is not paid within the stipulated timeframe, legal action will be initiated to confiscate Alvi’s movable and immovable assets. Additionally, his Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) and passport could be blocked.
In response to the Ombudsman’s order, Moonis Alvi issued a series of statements on social media, expressing disappointment and disputing the findings.
“The recent verdict is deeply distressing to me. While I respect the legal process and the institutions that uphold it, I must, in good conscience, state that the findings do not reflect the truth of the situation as I experienced it,” said Alvi.
He stated that he has always upheld the principles of integrity, dignity, and safe workplace culture, and he intends to appeal the decision through lawful means. Alvi also called the experience both professionally and personally painful.
“It is for anyone who feels wronged to be heard. I remain committed to ensuring that the truth is fully brought to light, through all lawful means available,” he added.
Moonis Alvi was appointed CEO of K-Electric in June 2018. During his tenure, the company launched multiple projects across the energy value chain, including the commissioning of a 900 MW RLNG-fired power plant.
Alvi joined K-Electric in 2008, serving in various leadership roles, such as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Company Secretary, and Head of Treasury. His professional background spans over 30 years in areas such as finance, financial planning, and capital restructuring. He is also a Fellow Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP).
Despite these credentials, his removal over workplace harassment casts a shadow over his legacy at one of Pakistan’s largest power utilities.
This case serves as a powerful reminder that workplace harassment laws in Pakistan are enforceable and that senior executives are not above accountability. The ruling demonstrates a commitment from the Sindh Ombudsman’s office to uphold justice, especially when women come forward with legitimate grievances.
The legal process highlights the significance of implementing corporate ethics, HR protocols, and whistleblower protections across public and private institutions. The case also reinforces the value of the Protection Against Harassment Act 2010, which has been instrumental in empowering victims.
Legal experts believe that if Alvi moves forward with an appeal, the case may proceed to higher judicial forums such as the Sindh High Court or even the Supreme Court, depending on the trajectory of the litigation. Until then, the order for his removal, fine payment, and potential asset seizure remains in effect.
KE has yet to issue an official corporate statement regarding interim leadership or the appointment of a new CEO. However, industry analysts suggest that the company will need to move swiftly to restore investor and employee confidence.
