PESHAWAR – Supreme Court of Pakistan Lawyer Saifullah Muhib Kakakhel has moved the Peshawar High Court (PHC) to address a governance crisis in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He filed the constitutional writ under Article 199. He seeks an alternative administrative system to restore provincial governance. This includes the potential appointment of a Deputy or Additional Chief Minister.
Allegations of Political Neglect
The petitioner argues that the Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and provincial leadership remain occupied with political protests. He highlighted the frequent rallies outside Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi. The lawyer claims these activities distract officials from urgent public issues.
He maintains that constitutional offices are a public trust. The petition states that the Cabinet must prioritize good governance under the law and their official oaths.
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Healthcare and Environmental Decay
The writ highlights a collapse of essential services across the province:
- Healthcare: Government hospitals face a severe shortage of beds. Emergency medicines and vaccines are often unavailable.
- Epidemics: The petitioner noted a lack of strategy during COVID-19 and Dengue outbreaks.
- Environment: The government has failed to combat smog and pollution. The petition also cites the illegal felling of trees as a sign of neglect.
Paralysis of Public Institutions
The filing claims that transparency bodies have become redundant. The Right to Information (RTI) Commission and the Citizen’s Portal are reportedly non-functional. This leaves citizens with no way to resolve their complaints.
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Formal Prayers to the Court
Advocate Kakakhel has requested the Peshawar High Court to:
- Appoint a Deputy CM: Direct the government to notify a Deputy or Acting Chief Minister to ensure administrative continuity.
- Ensure Attendance: Compel ministers to attend the Secretariat regularly.
- Demand Reports: Order the government to report on its compliance with previous court orders.
