Cases of embezzlement at NOC are nothing new. However, what is new this time round is that the NOC management has shown a serious intention of bringing its corrupt staff to book. The NOC management deserves appreciation for taking the irregularities seriously. And we also hope this is just the beginning of a far-reaching investigation that will eliminate the malaise eating into this state-owed enterprise.
NOC has a long way to go before it can transform itself from a clumsy and corrupt outfit into an efficient provider of a quality service. The complaints against NOC are not just limited to its disruptive supply system. Serious voices are raised about its ineffective monitoring role. Many gas stations across the country still sell adulterated petrol but it´s only rarely that an NOC inspection team has taken action against such pervasive malpractice. Part of the reason, NOC´s critics argue, is that the corporation itself hasn´t been able to address the adulteration that takes place within its operations. Many gas stations are also involved in manipulation of their fuel meters so that consumers end up paying for more fuel than they actually get.
NOC on its own cannot address all these systematic problems because the corporation alone is not responsible for them. The problem also lies with the political leadership that handles the Ministry of Commerce and Supplies. So long as political parties and their leaders compete to bring this ministry within their grasp because it is considered a "lucrative" portfolio, the problems at NOC are going to persist. Only an honest government minister can appoint a leadership at NOC that is rated high in competence and integrity. It is only such leadership that can act without fear or favor and turn the sick enterprise around.
Related story
NOC Thankot Depot distributes oil on Laxmi Puja
