PM rebukes Islamabad chief commissioner, IG over independence day buggy ride

Prime Minister of Pakistan has reprimanded Islamabad’s Chief Commissioner and Inspector General of Police (IGP) over their use

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister of Pakistan has reprimanded Islamabad’s Chief Commissioner and Inspector General of Police (IGP) over their use of a ceremonial buggy during the Independence Day celebrations, describing the display as inconsistent with the principles and values expected from senior public servants.

According to official advisories issued by the Prime Minister’s Office on August 17, the incident took place on August 14 during the Independence Day celebrations. Chief Commissioner Islamabad Lt. (Retd.) Sohail Ashraf and IG Islamabad Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi reportedly used a ceremonial carriage belonging to the Prime Minister’s House to attend and observe the parade.The Prime Minister himself was not present at the event.

The use of the ceremonial buggy attracted public criticism, with concerns raised over what was perceived as an unnecessary display of protocol and privilege by senior government officials.

In its advisory, the Prime Minister’s Office expressed serious displeasure over the incident and said the conduct created an inappropriate impression about the role of public servants. The office maintained that government officials are expected to uphold simplicity, humility and dignity rather than engage in displays of grandeur or personal prominence.

The Prime Minister stated that the use of such protocol projected an image of privilege, ostentation and personal aggrandisement that was contrary to the basic ethos of public service. He stressed that government officers serve the public and should therefore avoid conduct that could undermine public confidence in state institutions.

The advisory further warned that displays of excessive protocol and personal privilege by senior officials could damage the credibility of public institutions. It emphasized that officers occupying important administrative and law-enforcement positions are expected to demonstrate the highest standards of professionalism and propriety.

Following the Prime Minister’s directions, the Establishment Division issued a formal warning to the two officers through Joint Secretary (Discipline) Syeda Shafaq Hashmi.

The directive called for an immediate end to practices involving unnecessary protocol, exhibitionism and self-promotion at official events. It instructed the officers to ensure that such conduct does not happen again and emphasized the importance of maintaining simplicity and dignity while performing official duties.

The Establishment Division also directed that the advisory be followed strictly, both in letter and spirit. The warning serves as a reminder to senior civil servants that official positions come with significant responsibilities and require them to maintain appropriate standards of conduct in public.

The Prime Minister’s Office highlighted the special responsibilities of the Chief Commissioner and IG Islamabad, who serve as the administrative and police heads of the federal capital. Given their positions, the public and government expect them to set an example through responsible governance, discipline and appropriate behavior.

The episode has once again brought attention to the government’s emphasis on reducing unnecessary official protocol and promoting a culture of simplicity among public officials. The Prime Minister’s message was clear that public office should be associated with service, responsibility and accountability rather than privilege and ceremonial extravagance.

The two officials have now been directed to ensure that similar displays do not recur at future official functions and to uphold the standards expected from senior government officers.