International News

Islamabad High Court dismisses plea against dual national SAPMs

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has dismissed a petition challenging the appointment of Special Assistants

Sentinel Digital Desk

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has dismissed a petition challenging the appointment of Special Assistants to the Prime Minister (SAPMs) with dual nationalities, observing that the premier has every right to appoint as many assistants as he wants.

"The Prime Minister is the chief executive of one of the most important organs of the state and has to perform multiple/complex functions. A person elected as Prime Minister is answerable to the people of Pakistan and Majlis-i-Shoora (Parliament)," Dawn news quoted the court as saying on Thursday.

"A person who holds dual nationality is indeed a citizen of Pakistan and thus his or her commitment to Pakistan and patriotism cannot be doubted.

"A Pakistani citizen holding dual nationality is thus not ineligible or barred from being appointed by the prime minister as a special assistant...," it added. (IANS)