Barrister Dr. Saif, Information Adviser to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, has raised serious concerns about the unchecked influence of the sugar mafia in Pakistan, alleging direct links between the powerful cartel and members of the ruling elite.

In a strong-worded statement, Dr. Saif criticized the federal government for its failure to rein in the sugar lobby, saying it continues to exploit the public while enjoying political protection. “The state has surrendered before the sugar mafia, and ordinary citizens are paying the price,” he said.

He accused the country’s power brokers of shielding these profiteers, asserting that their close connections with those in authority prevent any meaningful accountability. “No one dares to challenge them because they are tied to the top tiers of power,” he added.

The adviser further lamented the growing economic burden on citizens, noting that while inflation continues to crush households, the wealth of the ruling class keeps expanding. He accused the government of deepening public suffering rather than offering any tangible relief.

Dr. Saif’s remarks reflect growing frustration over alleged elite capture and the government’s inaction against influential interest groups, as inflation and economic challenges persist nationwide.