Pakistan’s Establishment Division Undergoes Major Shake-Up as Secretary Nabeel Ahmed Awan Restructures Key Power Positions

Islamabad —Pakistan

Report By Muhammad Saleem 

In one of the most sweeping administrative overhauls in recent years, the Government of Pakistan has replaced all key Joint Secretaries within the Establishment Division, signalling a decisive consolidation of authority under Secretary Establishment Barrister Nabeel Ahmed Awan.

According to official notifications, the rapid reshuffle reflects a strategic move by Secretary Awan—approved at the highest level—to restructure the division’s command and control system. Analysts say the changes indicate the formation of a new, loyal administrative hierarchy while sidelining previously influential officers.

Major Appointments

Syeda Shafaq Hashmi (PAS/Grade 19)
Brought in from the Senate Secretariat and appointed Joint Secretary, Establishment Division.

Naila Baqir
Removed from the Establishment Division and posted to the Ministry of Housing and Works—seen by observers as part of a broader “structural clean-up.”

Majeed Ali Panhwar
Previously Joint Secretary in the Poverty Alleviation Division, now appointed Joint Secretary, Establishment Division.

Aamir Hussain Ghazi
Elevated directly from Deputy Secretary to Joint Secretary under Section 10—an appointment viewed as a strong assertion of the secretary’s administrative authority.

Deputy Secretary-Level Movements

Peer Ali Lakho (Grade 18, Government of Sindh)
Appointed Deputy Secretary, Establishment Division.

Shereen Hina Asghar (Ministry of Interior)
Posted as Deputy Secretary under Section 10.

Raja Rashid Ali
Removed from his position as Joint Secretary, Establishment Division, and posted to the Poverty Alleviation and Social Welfare Division.

Broader Implications

Administrative experts describe the overhaul as a clear indication of Secretary Awan’s intent to execute full operational control over the Establishment Division.
They believe the restructuring could influence upcoming promotions, transfers, and cadre policies, as the division transitions to a more centralized and streamlined command structure.