A key parliamentary committee has finally moved forward in the long-pending selection of a new chairman for the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA). After a delayed process, the panel has narrowed the field to two final candidates, setting the stage for a potentially historic appointment.
Committee Convenes After Delays, Opposition Absent
The joint parliamentary committee, which includes members from both the Senate and the National Assembly, held its meeting with MNA Shehbaz Babar presiding via video link. The session was notably marked by the absence of opposition members. Senator Ali Zafar, for instance, did not attend due to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's ongoing boycott of parliamentary committee meetings.
The panel, chaired by Shehbaz Babar, also included Syed Raza Ali Gillani, Senator Sarmad Ali, and Senator Syed Ali Zafar. This meeting had initially been scheduled for December last year but faced postponement, causing a significant delay in the appointment process for the crucial media regulatory position.
Two Names Emerge From Four Candidates
During the session, the committee meticulously reviewed the credentials of four individuals who were in contention for the top PEMRA post. The candidates under consideration were Ambreen Jan, Brigadier (retd) Anwar Mateen Haider, Dr Hameed Irfan, and Ashraf Khan.
Following detailed deliberations, the committee reached a decision. Only two names were advanced to the next stage: Ambreen Jan and Brigadier (retd) Anwar Mateen Haider. The other two candidates, Dr Hameed Irfan and Ashraf Khan, were not shortlisted.
A Decision with Historic Implications
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Senator Sarmad Ali provided crucial insights. He confirmed that the final decision regarding the appointment is expected to be made within the next day or two. He also highlighted the groundbreaking nature of the potential appointments.
If selected, Ambreen Jan would become the first woman ever to lead PEMRA, marking a significant milestone for gender representation in Pakistan's regulatory bodies. Conversely, the appointment of Brigadier (retd) Anwar Mateen Haider would be the first instance of a former brigadier assuming the role of PEMRA chairman.
According to sources familiar with the process, the name of Ambreen Jan has already been forwarded to the Prime Minister for consideration. The formal appointment will be made by the President of Pakistan, acting on the advice of the Prime Minister, as per the standard procedure.
The swift resolution of this appointment is now eagerly awaited by media stakeholders across the country, as PEMRA plays a pivotal role in regulating the electronic media landscape in Pakistan.
