Court demands explanation in stalled appointment case
The Islamabad High Court has issued a significant order summoning Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to appear in person on May 18 over delays in appointing a key member of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority Tribunal. Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani issued the directive while hearing a case related to the stalled appointment of the tribunal’s Member Finance.
Moreover, the court sought a direct explanation from the prime minister regarding the prolonged delay in finalizing the appointment. During proceedings, the Assistant Attorney General informed the bench that authorities had already appointed a retired judge to the tribunal. However, the development prompted further judicial scrutiny.
At the same time, Justice Kayani questioned the trend of appointing retired judges to such positions, expressing strong remarks during the hearing. His comments reflected concern over institutional practices and the pace of administrative decision-making in key regulatory bodies.
Additional officials also summoned by court
In addition, the court expanded its directive by summoning the Principal Secretary and Cabinet Secretary to appear before the bench. This move underscored the judiciary’s demand for accountability in the appointment process and highlighted growing concerns over administrative delays.
Furthermore, the order came as Justice Kayani is expected to be transferred from the Islamabad High Court, making it one of his final major rulings in the matter. The timing has added further attention to the case and its implications for institutional governance.
Consequently, the proceedings mark an escalation in judicial oversight of executive appointments, particularly within regulatory institutions such as the PTA Tribunal. Authorities have not yet issued an official response regarding the summons.
