Shehbaz Sharif reprimands Islamabad officials over ceremonial buggy ride

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has issued a directive to end unnecessary displays of privilege by government officials following a controversial incident during Pakistan’s Independence Day celebrations. The reprimand follows reports that Islamabad’s Chief Commissioner, Lt. (retired) Sohail Ashraf, and Inspector General of Police, Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, arrived at an official event in a ceremonial horse-drawn buggy.

The incident drew significant public criticism on social media, with citizens describing the display as a tone-deaf reflection of colonial-era VIP privilege. In an advisory issued via the Establishment Division, the Prime Minister expressed disappointment, stating that such “pomp and show” projects an image of ostentation and personal aggrandisement that is “wholly at odds with the ethos of public service.”

The directive emphasizes that public office is held in trust for the people and requires officials to demonstrate humility, restraint, and dignity. The Prime Minister warned that excessive displays of status can weaken public confidence in government institutions. Federal Secretaries have been instructed to ensure compliance with these standards across all ministries, departments, and autonomous bodies.