Key Takeaways
- A resolution has been submitted to the Punjab Assembly calling for a ban on dual nationals in government service.
- The resolution cites concerns over allegiance and access to sensitive state information.
- Around 24,000 serving employees are reportedly holding dual nationality.
A resolution has been tabled at the Punjab Assembly by PML-N Member of Provincial Assembly (MPA) Amjad Ali Javed, seeking a ban on the appointment of dual nationals to government service. The resolution aims to address concerns over loyalty and access to sensitive state information.
According to the text of the resolution, an investigative report claims that approximately 24,000 serving employees in various government departments hold dual nationality. Many family members of these individuals also possess foreign citizenship, while others are in the process of acquiring it. This raises significant questions about their loyalty and potential conflicts of interest.
The resolution argues that holding citizenship of another country requires an oath of allegiance to that state, which may compromise an individual’s loyalty to Pakistan. It notes that dual nationals are already barred from contesting elections on similar grounds. The document further states that government officials entrusted with sensitive information related to national security and administrative decisions should not be allowed to hold dual nationality.
Amjad Ali Javed stated in the resolution, “The appointment of individuals holding dual citizenship to government service poses a risk to our national interests and the integrity of state institutions.” He urged both federal and Punjab governments to introduce appropriate legislation and take necessary administrative measures to prohibit such appointments. The resolution highlights that existing laws do not prevent dual nationals from serving in government positions, making it essential to address this issue.
This is not the first time a call for such a ban has been made. In January, JUI-F Member of National Assembly (MNA) Noor Alam Khan also called for barring bureaucrats from holding dual nationality. During a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat, he stated, “And if this does not happen, parliamentarians should also be allowed to have dual citizenship.”
The resolution emphasizes that government officials play a crucial role in administrative and policy decisions, making it imperative to ensure their loyalty and commitment to Pakistan. It argues that such steps are necessary to safeguard national interests and protect sensitive state institutions.
Amjad Ali Javed’s resolution is part of a broader effort to address issues related to dual nationality within the government service. The move reflects growing concerns among political parties about the potential risks associated with employing individuals who hold citizenship of another country.
The appointment of individuals holding dual citizenship to government service poses a risk to our national interests and the integrity of state institutions.
Amjad Ali Javed, PML-N MPA
And if this does not happen, parliamentarians should also be allowed to have dual citizenship.
Noor Alam Khan, JUI-F MNA
