ISLAMABAD: In line with the directions of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), the Establishment Division on Monday removed Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon and Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr Akbar Nisar Khan from their posts with immediate effect.
Dr Akbar Nisar Khan was appointed as the top cop in Islamabad in May 2022 by the former Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM)-led coalition government.
In October, the ECP had asked the interior ministry to transfer the officers after different political parties filed complaints against them, expressing concerns that they may influence the outcome of the upcoming polls.
In November, the interior ministry asked the Establishment Division to transfer the Islamabad IG and DC without further delay in light of the directives issued by the ECP. However, the division turned a deaf ear to the directives.
Last week, the ECP summoned the secretary of the Establishment Division, seeking an explanation for not removing the officers. The Election Commission directed the secretary to appear before it on 26 December.
In a bid to avoid any departmental action or punishment, the authorities removed the officers from their positions just a day before the Establishment Division secretary was to appear before the ECP.
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar has asked the Establishment Division to propose a panel of officers to fill the vacant posts.
Chief Election Commissioner’s Warning
Earlier, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja had warned the government officials of strict action if they neglect their duties in the election process and show “political bias”, stating free, fair, and impartial conduct of polls is essential for a thriving democracy.
