Recent promotions solely based on merit: PM

Imran Khan urges newly promoted officers to set an example in good governance

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan has said the recent promotions of bureaucrats were solely based on merit and urged the promoted officers to set an example of good governance.

“Today, the political leadership and bureaucracy have to determine future of the country. It requires new thinking and good governance,” Imran said on Monday while meeting with recently promoted federal secretaries.

The meeting took place two days after the government issued orders for appointment, promotion and transfer of 44 officers at the federal level and 90 officers in Punjab.

“You should set an example of good governance,” the prime minister was quoted as saying to the officers.

He hoped that the promoted officers would fulfill their new responsibilities with full spirit and serve the nation and the state, adding that Pakistan stands at a crucial juncture in its history.

The PM said political leadership has to give vision for development of the country while the bureaucracy has to put this vision into practice. He said Pakistan was considered exemplary in terms of governance in the sixties but is now lagging behind other countries in the region due to various reasons.

He said the promoted officers should fulfill their responsibilities as a jihad and national duty.

“Allah Almighty has given Pakistan innumerable resources and manpower. In the last fifteen months, foreign investors have also expressed interest in every sector of the economy.”

Imran said due to efforts of the present government, there is economic stability in the country today and domestic investors and business community are expressing their confidence in the economy and policies of the country.

“International institutions are also acknowledging improvement in the domestic economy. To further strengthen the economy, the bureaucracy should play an integral role in the welfare of the people.”

The prime minister cited example of Pakistanis abroad taking a keen interest in investing in the country, saying in the past Pakistanis and foreign investors were discouraged due to governance problems.

"We have to improve this environment and create conducive environment for Pakistanis and investors abroad, especially small and medium-sized investors, and facilitate business," he said.

The PM directed the officers to utilise their energy and experience for the service of the country and for the welfare of the people.