Controversy Erupts Over Federal Appointment to Key Water Resources Post
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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif appointed a former federal secretary, Zafar Mahmood, as chairman of the Indus River System Authority (Irsa), overriding the current chairman from Balochistan.
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The move was made under a controversial ordinance that may have not gone through proper constitutional procedures. It is likely to create conflict between the federal government and the provinces.
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The ordinance gives the Irsa chairman overriding powers over the Authority, neutralizing the role of the provincial members.
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The law prevents provinces from approaching the Council of Common Interests if aggrieved by an Irsa decision. Instead, they must appeal to the Irsa chairman.
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The chairman will have the power to hire his own staff and experts to advise on water distribution and related matters, further consolidating control.