The controversy over approving two controversial bills has taken a new turn as President Arif Alvi ‘s appointed principal secretary, Waqar Ahmed, refused to continue in his role. The President’s Secretariat requested the Prime Minister’s Office to replace Waqar Ahmed with Humaira Ahmad, a grade-22 DMG officer. This development comes after President Alvi’s revelation that he did not sign the Official Secrets (Amendment) Bill, 2023, and the Pakistan Army (Amendment) Bill, 2023, triggering a significant controversy within the country.
In response to President Arif Alvi ‘s statement that he did not sign the bills, the President’s Secretariat announced that Waqar Ahmed’s services were no longer required and were surrendered to the Establishment Division with immediate effect. President Alvi requested the appointment of Humaira Ahmad, a senior government officer, to replace Waqar Ahmed as his principal secretary.
However, the controversy deepened as a confidential letter written by Waqar Ahmed came to light, revealing his perspective on the bills’ approval process. Ahmed clarified that President Alvi neither assented to the bills nor gave a written decision to return them to parliament for reconsideration. He outlined the timeline for both accounts, stating that the Pakistan Army (Amendment) Bill was received on August 2 and sent to the President on August 3. According to the law, President Alvi had until August 11 to advise on the bill.
Similarly, the Official Secrets (Amendment) Bill was received on August 8 and moved to the President’s office on August 9. The bill’s note indicated that the prime minister’s advice was received on August 8, and the ten days for presidential action would be completed by August 17. Despite this, President Alvi neither assented to the bill nor provided a written decision for its reconsideration by parliament. Ahmed’s letter stated that the files for both accounts are still with the President’s Office as of August 21.
Waqar Ahmed maintained that he had not delayed the processing of the bills nor committed any irregularity or negligence. He highlighted that his removal from his position was unjust and requested a thorough inquiry by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) or any other relevant agency to probe the facts and ascertain responsibility for any lapses. He expressed his willingness to present himself in court to prove his innocence.
The controversy has garnered significant attention due to its implications for the legal process and transparency in the approval of legislation. President Alvi’s initial statement on social media revealed his disagreement with the two bills and his intention not to sign them. This sparked discussions about the decision-making process within the government and the proper handling of legislative matters.
The subsequent developments, including removing Waqar Ahmed from his position, further intensified the controversy. The involvement of senior government officials, legal complexities, and issues of transparency and accountability are at the forefront of the discussion.
As the situation unfolds, questions surrounding the bills’ approval process, the roles of government officials, and the Arif Alvi ‘s stance on the legislation remain prominent. The controversy underscores the importance of clear communication, proper procedures, and accountability within the government’s decision-making process.
Without an official response from the President’s House regarding Waqar Ahmed’s letter, the public remains eager for further information about the developments and implications of this ongoing controversy.