Islamabad – The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday issued a landmark ruling declaring the appointment of Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Hafeez u Rehman as unlawful.
The court directed the federal government to remove him from office immediately, terming his appointment inconsistent with the established legal framework.
The judgment came after the court accepted a petition filed by digital rights activist Usama Khilji, who was represented by Advocate Asad Ladha. In his arguments, Khilji maintained that the process of appointing the chairman had violated statutory requirements and lacked transparency.
Justice Babar Sattar, who presided over the case, reserved the verdict earlier this month and released a detailed 99-page decision today. The ruling highlighted that the procedures followed for the chairman’s appointment did not conform to the standards laid down by law, thereby invalidating the position.
The court also instructed that, until a lawful appointment is made, a senior member of the PTA should be given charge as acting chairman to ensure the authority continues functioning without disruption.
The case sheds light on broader concerns about governance and accountability in regulatory bodies. Observers note that the decision could set a precedent for greater scrutiny of appointments to senior posts in key institutions.
The IHC’s verdict underscores the importance of transparency and merit in appointing officials, particularly when the role of chairman involves overseeing critical sectors such as telecommunications.