Karachi, February 3, 2026 – The Governor of Sindh has officially set aside the order issued by the Provincial Ombudsman against the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of K-Electric Limited (KE) in a high-profile women harassment case. The disclosure was made by K-Electric in a communication to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Tuesday.
This decision follows a long-running legal process stemming from a complaint filed in November 2020 by a former employee of K-Electric against the CEO, two employees, and a former director under the Protection against Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2010 (as amended).
Background of the Case
• In October 2020, K-Electric terminated the employee for performance-related reasons.
• Following the termination, the ex-employee filed a complaint alleging harassment involving the CEO, two employees, and a director.
• The Provincial Ombudsman issued a Show Cause Notice to the accused in November 2020, which was subsequently challenged in the High Court of Sindh (SHC).
The SHC initially suspended the final order of the Ombudsman and allowed proceedings to continue. The matter was later escalated to the Supreme Court of Pakistan, which is still pending adjudication.
Provincial Ombudsman Order and CEO Response
On July 31, 2025, the Provincial Ombudsman directed the removal of the CEO from service along with a financial penalty. The other accused individuals were cleared of all allegations.
In response, the CEO filed:
1. A Representation (Appeal) before the Governor of Sindh, the designated authority for challenging Ombudsman orders.
2. A Constitutional Petition in the High Court of Sindh, which successfully suspended the operation of the Ombudsman’s order.
Governor of Sindh Decision
After reviewing the relevant records and hearing arguments from all parties, the Hon’ble Governor of Sindh, exercising powers under Section 9 of the Protection against Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2010, has set aside the Ombudsman’s order dated July 31, 2025 against the CEO.
K-Electric stated that the official copy of the Governor’s order has not yet been received. The company will decide the appropriate course of action upon receipt, taking legal advice into account.
Significance of the Ruling
The Governor’s decision marks a major development in one of the most closely watched corporate harassment cases in Pakistan. It reinforces the procedural rights of executives in challenging administrative orders under the Act of 2010.
Legal analysts note that the CEO’s challenge to the Ombudsman’s jurisdiction was a key factor in the Governor’s decision. K-Electric emphasized that it remains committed to workplace safety and compliance with harassment laws.