The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has summoned Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif to appear in person on May 18 in a case concerning the non-appointment of a finance member to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Tribunal.
During the hearing, Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani directed that the prime minister must personally appear before the court and explain why the position of the tribunal’s finance member remains vacant. The judge emphasized that the delay in appointment requires a clear justification at the highest level.
An Assistant Attorney General informed the court that a retired judge had been appointed as a tribunal member. However, Justice Kayani expressed dissatisfaction with the response and made critical remarks regarding the appointment of retired judges to such positions.
The judge commented that retired judges often seek placements in tribunals and other bodies, suggesting that such practices have not always yielded positive outcomes. He questioned the process and priorities behind these appointments.
Justice Kayani further remarked that if the finance member is not appointed by May 18, the prime minister will be required to appear in court and provide an explanation for the continued vacancy.
The case highlights concerns regarding delays in key institutional appointments and the functioning of regulatory bodies. The court’s directive underscores the importance of timely appointments to ensure the effective operation of tribunals and related institutions.
