Seeking justice: Whistleblower goes to court against suspension

Petitioner claims being victimised for speaking out against corruption

LAHORE: A court official suspended from service for speaking out against corruption and favouritism has gone to the Lahore High Court (LHC) seeking justice.

Whistleblower Akmal Khan has challenged his suspension as a senior court associate, terming it a result of highlighting dishonesty, out-of-turn promotions and illegal appointments at the court.

In his petition filed in the Lahore High Court, Akmal has highlighted illegal promotions, appointments and non-transparency in High Court Welfare Fund during different times.

According to Akmal, he joined the high court as an assistant in 1993 and after 26 years he was still working as a senior court associate while many employees who joined service after him had been promoted as additional registrars and deputy registrars.

He claimed he was being victimised for pointing out wrongdoings at the court happening without the knowledge of the high-ups.

He said he filed several applications to highlight nepotism, favouritism and victimisation and instead of taking action on them, the authorities suspended him from service.

On August 16, Akmal was suspended over poor performance. However, his name was recommended for honorarium on dedication with official work. In 2002, Akmal claimed, 15 assistant registrars were appointed in the LHC in violation of rules.

Akmal has requested the court to look into his case and restore his services. He also pleaded for an audit of the High Court Welfare Fund and implementation on the SC’s judgment on the matter of out-of-turn promotions and appointments.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 7^th, 2016.