The Lahore High Court (LHC) division bench has reinstated Lt-Gen Munir Afsar as NADRA chairman. The verdict came on February 20, 2025, after the federal government’s appeal against an earlier decision that nullified his appointment.
A division bench consisting of Justice Chaudhry Muhammad Iqbal and Justice Ahmed Nadeem Arshad heard the case. After reviewing arguments from both sides, the court ruled in favor of the federal government. This decision overturns the earlier verdict by Justice Asim Hafeez, which had declared the appointment illegal.
Background of the Case
In 2024, Justice Asim Hafeez nullified the appointment of Lt-Gen Munir Afsar while hearing a petition from Ashba Kamran. She had challenged the appointment notification issued by the interim government. However, she did not contest the amended rule under which the appointment was made.
The federal government then filed an appeal, arguing that the single bench’s decision was legally flawed. It emphasized that the government has the authority to amend appointment rules under Section 44 of the NADRA Ordinance, 2000.
Government’s Argument
The government argued that it had followed the NADRA (Appointment and Emoluments of Chairman and Members) Rules, 2020. According to Rule 7A, the government can appoint a NADRA chairman without a public advertisement or competitive selection process.
Gold Price in Pakistan Today – February 20
It further stated that judicial intervention in executive decisions should be limited unless there is clear legal violation. The appeal stressed that the federal government acted within its legal authority.
Earlier, on September 10, 2024, a division bench had suspended the single bench’s verdict and temporarily reinstated Lt-Gen Munir Afsar. The latest ruling now makes his reinstatement official and final.
Legal Experts’ Opinion
Legal analysts believe this verdict sets a strong precedent. It reinforces the government’s power to amend rules and appoint key officials without unnecessary legal hurdles. Many experts view it as a significant decision in Pakistan’s administrative law.
Impact of the Verdict
This ruling strengthens the federal government’s authority over key appointments. It also highlights the judiciary’s role in maintaining checks and balances. The decision may influence future legal challenges related to government appointments.
With this verdict, Lt-Gen Munir Afsar resumes his role as NADRA chairman, ensuring continuity in the organization’s leadership.
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