PESHAWAR: In a landmark decision, the Peshawar High Court (PHC) has barred the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf led Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government from using official resources for personal or political activities.
“Accordingly, we dispose of the writ petition; however, the respondents and all the concerned authorities are directed to ensure, with utmost diligence, that no official vehicle, machinery, or manpower under their control is deployed, used, or permitted to be used for any protest, long march, rally, or political activity of any nature,” ruled PHC.
“This Court is of the view that the use of official vehicles, machinery, or any other government resources for participation in, or facilitation of, political gatherings, protest rallies, or long marches constitutes a blatant misuse of public property and authority,” observed PHC in its five-page written order.
“Such conduct is not only inconsistent with the principles of public trust and accountability but also offends the foundational concept of neutrality in governance,” high court further observed in its decision on a writ petition filed by a citizen against usage of official resources in political activities of PTI.
The PHC’s Justice Sahibzada Asadullah authored the ruling, stating there in that Public resources, including official vehicles and heavy machinery, are procured and maintained from the public exchequer for the sole purpose of performing official duties and providing services to the citizens in accordance with law.
Their diversion for political or extraneous purposes, whether directly or indirectly, undermines the sanctity of the public office and shakes public confidence in the fairness and impartiality of the administration, the written order further stated.
“It is a settled principle that ne public functionary, howsoever high or influential can employ government property for personal political, or partisan interests,” observed PHC.
Moreover, the written order further added, such unauthorized use of official resources may amount to misconduct and abuse of authority within the meaning of the relevant service laws and accountability mechanisms.
“It is the constitutional obligation of every public office-holder, under Articles 4 and 5 of the Constitution, to act in accordance with law and to remain faithful to the trust reposed in them by the people.”
“Articles 25 further guarantees equality before the law, which implies that public resources cannot be placed at the disposal of one group, party, or segment of society to the disadvantage of others. In a democratic system governed by the rule of law, the State must maintain strict separation between official functions and political activities.”
“The use of government vehicles or personnel in political events conveys an impression of state endorsement or complicity in partisan matters, which is impermissible. Such acts erode the principle of administrative neutrality and may lead to public disorder or a perception of bias in governance.”
