Image issues: Punjab calls back sacked media managers

The officials were fired over inability to manage the Ayesha Ahad Malik story.


Anwer Sumra October 26, 2011

LAHORE:


The Punjab government has reversed its decision to axe two top media managers who were initially dismissed for failing to handle the Ayseha Ahad Malik issue properly.


Malik’s claims to be the wife of Hamza Shahbaz, son of Shahbaz Sharif, the chief minister of the province, have played out under a cloud of controversy in the media. A number of officials, who asked not to be identified, said the issue had damaged the image and reputation of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) and the Sharif family in particular.

Mohiyddin Wani, secretary for information, culture and youth affairs (IC&YA) was removed from his position on October 14, only to be reinstated on October 19.

Known as a confident and trustworthy aide to Shahbaz Sharif, Wani was unceremoniously removed from his position, reportedly on the recommendation of a prominent media house with close ties to the Sharif family.

On October 11, Muhammad Aslam Dogar, the director general of public relations, was fired for the same reason, officials from the directorate said. Dogar is still awaiting reappointment, though sources say he will be reinstated shortly.

Wani denies claims that his handling of the Malik issue caused his dismissal. “I was transferred on personal request, but posted again on the chief secretary Nasir Mehmood Khosa’s desires,” he said. “I got rest for five days and am now working normally as secretary of information,” Wani added.

Wani, it seems, is no stranger to controversy. In March, the Provincial Management Service (PMS) began strikes, demanding fairer treatment within the provincial hierarchy. Wani eventually developed a split among the PMS officers, an official claimed, which led to FIRs being registered against 83 officials. Among other posts Wani has held is the position of managing director of the Punjab Education Foundation.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 26th, 2011.

COMMENTS (3)

sarfraz | 12 years ago | Reply

Dear Anwer Sumra. Please confirm all news related to family issues of any political party leader. Also naming some Govt. servants to be part of political party is not good norm. I know new born media wants Imran Khan to be PM in waiting and equal competitor of PML (N) but that is only possible if the common masses vote in majority to him. Wish Ur wishes a Best of Luck.

Ali | 12 years ago | Reply

@mohyuddin wani: Don't be scare man you will remain on your job, no need to compose unrealistic stories.

CM can not restrict his son by commiting innocent mistake as he himself is habitual, you people need to hide all true incidents, this is your duty. Be ready for next task.

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