CJP summons ex-secretary to Punjab CM over 'shady' appointment

LAHORE - Chief Justice of Pakistan Mian Saqib Nisar has taken suo moto notice of Dr Tauqir Shah’s appointment as Pakistan’s Ambassador to the World Trade Organisation.

Dr Tauqir Shah has been summoned to appear before the apex court on the next hearing, while the record concerning the appointment of Tauqir to the said post has also been sought.

During the case hearing, the top judge questioned Punjab Health Minister, Khwaja Salman Rafique, over why Tauqir was sent abroad and that 'why have the colors of his face faded after hearing about the suo moto notice?'

Salman Rafique replied that he was only responsible for his own actions.

“We are told that we are interfering, now let’s see how transparent this appointment was,” the CJP remarked.

Meanwhile, the Chief Secretary informed the court that Shah had been sent to World Trade Organization in Geneva.

'Isn’t this the same country where people accumulate their wealth?' wondered the top judge.

"Yes it is famous for stashing wealth," replied the chief secretary.

"The fame is good for Switzerland but not for Tauqir Shah. If necessary, principal secretary of Punjab CM will also be summoned," replied the CJP.

Afterwards, the court directed the secretary establishment to submit the record of Shah’s appointment as member of World Trade Organization.

Tauqir Shah was removed as principal secretary to CM after the Model Town tragedy in Lahore, moreover, he was appointed as the Ambassador to the WTO in 2015.