PHC seeks K-P govt’s reply in vacant positions in KPIC case

The Peshawar High Court (PHC) on Wednesday sought reply from the provincial government on a petition seeking appointment against a key position lying vacant at the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Commission (KPIC) since November, 2019, and July, 2022.
The petition was filed by the Executive Director of the Center for Peace & Development Initiatives, seeking the urgent need to fill vacant positions.
During the hearing, the PHC noted the absence of the Advocate General of KP and ordered the provincial government to submit its reply by the 30th of April, stressing the importance of addressing the matter promptly.
The petition underscores the dysfunctional state of the KPIC due to the vacant posts, which have remained unfilled since.
As per details, with approximately 1700 right to information applications pending, the Commission’s inability to function effectively has severely hindered citizens’ access to vital information.
Highlighting the critical role of the Information Commission in upholding transparency and accountability in governance, the Executive Director urges swift action to appoint two Information Commissioners in accordance with Section 24(4) of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Right to Information Act, 2013.
The petition seeks to address the breach of statutory duty and violation of constitutional rights resulting from the failure to appoint Information Commissioners, emphasizing the need to ensure the effective implementation of the Right to Information Act for the benefit of all citizens.