Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has voiced his dissatisfaction regarding the use of a horse-drawn carriage by Islamabad officials during the Independence Day celebrations held on August 14. The incident involved the Islamabad Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Chief Commissioner, who were seen arriving at the parade in the carriage, an act that sparked widespread criticism on social media.
In response, the Joint Secretary (Discipline) formally notified both the IGP and Chief Commissioner in writing about the prime minister’s concerns. The letter emphasized that such displays were inconsistent with the ethos of public service and conveyed directives from PM Shehbaz urging civil servants to avoid such conduct and uphold simplicity in their official duties.
Meanwhile, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi defended the officials, explaining that the horse carriage was initially arranged for the chief guest but was used by the two officials due to unavoidable circumstances. He clarified that the chief guest and the minister were delayed because of a meeting between the president and the prime minister.
Naqvi, the two Islamabad officials were instructed to begin the program as the public had been waiting since 5 pm. Although the officials were reluctant to start the event without the chief guest and the minister, they proceeded following orders to prioritize the convenience of the attendees.
