Lahore High Court’s Decision on Removal of PHC Commissioners Is a Victory for Rule of Law: PMA Lahore

By Farzana Chaudhry | Lahore, Pakistan

LAHORE: The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) Lahore has welcomed the decision of Lahore High Court Justice Raheel Kamran, declaring unconstitutional the provision of the Punjab Healthcare Commission (Amendment) Act 2024 that allowed the government to remove Punjab Healthcare Commission (PHC) commissioners at its discretion.

PMA Lahore appreciated the constitutional petition filed by former Punjab Healthcare Commission Commissioner Dr. Azimuddin Zahid and acknowledged the effective legal representation by his counsel, Barrister Umar Riaz. The association said the case successfully highlighted the fundamental principles of regulatory autonomy, fixed tenure and legal protection for members of independent regulatory institutions.

According to PMA Lahore, the judgment is an important step toward strengthening the supremacy of the Constitution, rule of law and due process. It also reinforces internationally recognized principles of good governance and the need for independent and effective regulatory institutions in the healthcare sector.

The association emphasized that protecting independent regulatory bodies from governmental pressure or individual discretion is essential to ensuring their impartiality, credibility and effective functioning.

PMA Lahore strongly urged the Government of Punjab to respect the Lahore High Court’s decision and avoid unnecessary judicial review or appeals, particularly where such action may undermine the spirit of regulatory autonomy and established principles of good governance.

“The real responsibility of the government is to strengthen institutions, uphold the rule of law and ensure a transparent and independent regulatory system in the public interest,” the PMA said.

PMA Lahore described the Lahore High Court’s decision as a significant and welcome development that would contribute to strengthening institutional independence, regulatory integrity and the rule of law in Punjab’s healthcare sector.