Sindh CM Challenges Federal Government’s Performance Evaluation

Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister Justice (Retd) Maqbool Baqar has voiced criticism against the interim federal government’s initiative to create performance evaluation charts for its officers, particularly those of common cadres (PAS/PSP) posted in provinces, stating that such actions exceed federal mandate and violate guidelines set forth by the Supreme Court of Pakistan.

The interim Prime Minister has sanctioned a 10-point framework termed as ‘broad parameters‘ for the formulation of provincial performance evaluation charts for Federal Government Officers stationed in provinces. Subsequently, Chief Secretaries have been directed to take requisite steps based on these guidelines.

Expressing his concerns, the CM highlighted that the performance evaluation chart devised by the interim federal government oversteps its authority and fails to align with Supreme Court guidelines. He emphasized that policy decisions of this nature should be within the purview of elected governments.

Moreover, Justice Baqar emphasized that parameters outlined in the chart encroach upon matters falling under provincial jurisdiction, particularly those related to law and order. He stressed that formulating such parameters without consulting the provinces undermines fairness in accountability and performance evaluation of officers.

The CM further pointed out that the hurried drafting and approval of these parameters demonstrate a lack of thoughtful consideration, as many of them overlook the input of provincial Chief Executives, thereby compromising the fairness of the evaluation process.

Justice Baqar also highlighted that these parameters run counter to provisions outlined in the Civil Service of Pakistan (Composition and Cadre) Rules 1954. He affirmed that the Government of Sindh will provide a detailed response following the induction of the elected government and Chief Minister.