K-P health directorate violates rotation policy

Officials keep posts despite transfer orders

PESHAWAR:

A serious violation of the rotation policy has surfaced in the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Health Directorate.

Despite transfer orders, 91 officials are still holding their previous positions. Sources told The Express Tribune that, following instructions from the Chief Secretary, various provincial departments were directed to implement the two-year tenure policy, aimed at improving efficiency and ensuring institutional discipline.

As part of this initiative, orders were issued to transfer 91 officials from the Health Directorate. However, these orders have been ignored, and so far, no official has reported to their new postings. While some employees have submitted formal reports, they continue to serve in their previous roles.

What's particularly concerning is that no inquiry or action has been taken against the officers responsible for this blatant violation, raising doubts about the effectiveness of departmental reforms.

This situation not only breaches high-level orders but also undermines the principles of good governance and transparency. Several officers have reportedly been occupying the same post for years and are unwilling to transfer, directly violating the rotation policy.

Sources also mentioned that despite government orders for strict disciplinary actions against non-compliant employees, no concrete steps have been taken, reinforcing the perception of traditional laxity within the department.

In March, the K-P government decided to transfer employees who had been posted in the same position for over two years. The Chief Secretary instructed all administrative secretaries to compile lists of such employees and issue transfer orders accordingly.

A special committee, led by the Secretary of Administrative Affairs, was formed to oversee the transfer process for officers above Grade 17. This committee is tasked with finalizing transfer decisions to enhance government departments' efficiency and performance.

Sources noted that the Chief Secretary's orders have caused concern among employees in key positions held for over two years. Many are reportedly looking for ways to avoid transfers. Employees from departments like Planning & Development (P&D), Local Government, Finance, Irrigation, and Communications & Works (C&W) have expressed dissatisfaction with the decision.

Reports suggest that some employees in critical departments, like Planning & Development and C&W, have held their positions for as long as 12 years. Their transfers are now imminent, presenting new challenges for government employees, many of whom are reportedly seeking to stay in Peshawar and avoid postings in remote areas.

Rotation policy is not new but it is seldom followed as in 2022 then Chief Minister Mahmood Khan ordered that the policy for transfer of civil servants after every two years should be implemented in letter and spirit and an automated system be developed for the purpose.