PM Shehbaz summoned by IHC in PTA tribunal case

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued a directive summoning Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to appear in person on May 18 in a case related to the delayed appointment of a member of the finance committee of the PTA Tribunal.

During the hearing, Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani questioned the government’s delay and asked why the required appointment had not yet been made. He remarked that the prime minister should personally explain the situation in court, adding that both the cabinet secretary and the secretary concerned must also appear at the next hearing.

An assistant attorney general informed the court that a retired judge had been appointed to the tribunal. However, the judge expressed dissatisfaction with the explanation and criticized the frequent appointment of retired judges to such roles. He remarked that such practices were becoming routine and raised concerns over their effectiveness in handling tribunal responsibilities.

Justice Kayani further noted that the authorities must provide a clear and satisfactory explanation regarding the matter. He ordered that the prime minister’s personal appearance be ensured at the next hearing.