Dateline Investigation Cell
ISLAMABAD – The Capital Development Authorities (CDA) was facing increasing criticism due to allegations of nepotism and incompetence in the recent appointments, leading to a negative impact on the organization’s overall performance. The latest appointment of Associate Professor Romana Gul Kaktar as an inspection member has brought these concerns to the forefront. The process of appointing deputation officers in the CDA has gained momentum since the change in government, resulting in distress among existing officers and raising questions about the qualifications and capabilities of new appointees. Moreover, the violation of court orders regarding these appointments has further exacerbated the situation.
Since 2015, the CDA has transferred and posted a total of 84 officers and 161 officials to different departments, while 37 officers and 46 officials from various groups are still serving on deputation. These appointments have come under scrutiny as the CDA appears to favor its preferred officers, overlooking their qualifications and expertise. Consequently, inexperienced individuals have been placed in crucial positions, significantly hampering the organization’s functioning.
A particular appointment that has drawn attention is that of Associate Professor Romana Gul Kaktar, who previously served in the Higher Education and Technical Education Department Balochistan. Her appointment as a Member of the CDA was not approved by the federal government, and her current position is one grade higher than her previous designation. It is noteworthy that she had also been on deputation for several years in the National Assembly of Pakistan during the tenure of former President Gen Pervez Musharraf, where she served as Secretary in standing committees. This appointment raises concerns about the lack of adherence to proper procedures and qualifications.
The list of deputation appointments includes officials in crucial positions such as Director General Civic Management, Director General Inspection, DG Enforcement, Director General Land, Director DMA, Director Revenue, and Deputy Director WMB, among others. These individuals lack relevant experience in their assigned roles. Additionally, directors of Sports and Culture, Audit, Estate, HR 1, Audit and Accounts, Estate Member, and Planning Member have been appointed on deputation without possessing appropriate expertise. The inclusion of individuals without suitable experience, who are entrusted with vital responsibilities, is a matter of serious concern.
When questioned in the National Assembly, the Ministry of Interior acknowledged that since 2015, a significant number of officers and officials have been transferred and posted on deputation in the CDA. Currently, 37 officers and 46 officials are still serving on deputation. The citizens of Islamabad, the capital city, are concerned about how the provision of essential services can be ensured when individuals in key positions lack the necessary knowledge and experience to fulfill their responsibilities.
The prevalence of nepotism and incompetence in the CDA’s appointments is raising serious doubts about the organization’s ability to effectively carry out its duties. The public is calling for transparency, merit-based appointments, and a thorough review of the qualifications and capabilities of individuals holding key positions within the CDA. It remains to be seen how the authorities will address these concerns and restore confidence in the organization’s operations.
