Ishaq Dar's Dual Role Under Legal Scrutiny

In a recent hearing at the Islamabad High Court (IHC), the Cabinet Division clarified that the position of deputy prime minister in Pakistan is considered honorary, with no specific office designated for this role. This revelation came during a petition challenging the appointment of Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar as deputy prime minister, where it was argued that there is no constitutional provision for such a post. The petitioner expressed concerns over the common practice of assigning multiple roles to government officials in Pakistan, questioning the legality of such appointments.

The focus of the petition was on Ishaq Dar's dual responsibilities as both foreign minister and deputy prime minister, raising ethical and legal questions about holding two significant positions simultaneously. The court was urged to promptly address this issue to uphold the principles of rule of law and good governance. A plea was made for a larger bench to review the case and provide a definitive ruling on the legality of dual appointments.

After considering the arguments presented, the court decided to adjourn the hearing indefinitely. The petition against Ishaq Dar's appointment as deputy prime minister underscored the absence of any constitutional backing for such a position and cast doubt on the validity of the notification issued by the Cabinet Division. The petitioner called for the cancellation of the appointment, citing concerns about potential misuse of public resources for personal gain.

The ongoing legal scrutiny of the deputy prime minister role in Pakistan reflects a broader debate on the proper allocation of governmental responsibilities and the adherence to constitutional provisions. As the case unfolds, it highlights the importance of transparency, accountability, and adherence to legal frameworks in ensuring effective governance. The outcome of this legal battle could have significant implications for the governance structure in Pakistan, emphasizing the need for clarity and adherence to established norms.