On Friday, 7th February 2025, Mr. Muhammad Shakeel Malik, Secretary to the President of Pakistan, addressed during a lecture on “Accountability Framework for Civil Servants”, to the participants of the 37th SMC.

  1. During the lecture, Mr. Malik provided a comprehensive overview of the accountability mechanisms governing civil servants in Pakistan. He emphasised the importance of accountability at various levels, including executive, parliamentary, and ministerial oversight, as enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan. Mr. Malik highlighted the roles of key institutions such as the Principal Accounting Officer (PAO), the Auditor General of Pakistan, and the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in ensuring transparency and efficient use of public funds. Mr. Malik also discussed the Efficiency and Discipline Rules, 2020, which outline penalties for civil servants found guilty of inefficiency, misconduct, or corruption. He explained the distinction between minor and major penalties, ranging from censure to dismissal from service, and stressed the need for fair and impartial implementation of these rules to maintain public trust in government institutions.
  2. The lecture further discussed the role of anti-corruption agencies, including the Anti-Corruption Establishments (ACEs), the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and National Accountability Bureau (NAB), in investigating and prosecuting corruption cases. Mr. Malik outlined the procedural steps involved in these investigations, emphasising the importance of due process and the protection of civil servants’ rights during inquiries. Addressing recent developments, Mr. Malik discussed the impact of the Supreme Court of Pakistan’s amendments to the National Accountability Ordinance (NAO), 1999 and its impact after October, 2024.
  3. He highlighted concerns raised by civil servants regarding the fairness of the accountability process, including issues such as media coverage during investigations, lengthy remand periods, and the seizure of property. Mr. Malik underscored the need for a balanced approach that ensures accountability while safeguarding the rights and morale of civil servants. In his closing remarks, Mr. Malik emphasised the positive impact of a robust accountability framework on service delivery. He noted that accountability mechanisms help identify legal and performance gaps, improve governance, and foster a culture of responsibility within government institutions.
  4. The lecture was concluded with Q&A session, where participants engaged with Mr. Malik on various aspects of the accountability framework and its implications for civil service reform including NAB. This insightful lecture provided a clear roadmap for strengthening accountability in Pakistan’s civil service, ensuring that public servants remain committed to their duties while upholding the highest standards of integrity and transparency.