CEO of Pakistan’s Software Exports Board Removed Over Security Concerns

The Pakistan government has ousted Syed Ali Raza from his position as the chief executive officer (CEO) of the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) due to his failure to secure security clearance from relevant law enforcement agencies.

Raza, appointed by the Pakistan Democratic Movement government in April, led the PSEB, which focuses on fostering the development and software exports and IT services. Despite serving as the CEO for six to seven months, Raza’s dismissal came following security institutions’ recommendations, with the sources emphasizing anonymity.

In a parallel development, concerns over the performance of Babar Majid Bhatti, the CEO of the National Information Technology Board (NITB), were raised by the Minister for IT&T. Bhatti, appointed for a two-year term during the last government’s tenure, faced criticism regarding his performance.

The Ministry of IT&T reportedly reshuffled responsibilities related to the Hajj application and portal, redistributing tasks between the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) and the NITB. Additionally, some duties of the World Bank’s economy enhancement program were reassigned to NADRA and the Board of Investment due to the perceived subpar performance of the NITB.

This move signals a broader restructuring within the information technology sector, reflecting the government’s commitment to ensuring effective leadership and optimal performance in key institutions promoting technological development and services in Pakistan.