Irfan Baig Appointed to Prime Minister’s Inspection Commission

The federal government has appointed Irfan Baig, former Director General of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Rawalpindi, as a member of the Prime Minister’s Inspection Commission (PMIC). His appointment comes on a two-year contractual basis, confirmed through an official notification issued by the Establishment Division.

Baig’s inclusion in the PMIC is considered a significant step, given his track record in handling high-profile investigations during his tenure at NAB. His experience is expected to provide the Commission with deeper insights into accountability processes and governance challenges within the federal framework.

Notification and Background of Appointment

The Establishment Division formalized Irfan Baig’s induction into the PMIC through a formal notification. This appointment reflects the government’s intent to strengthen oversight institutions with individuals who have extensive experience in handling sensitive and high-stakes cases.

Baig’s background in accountability matters and anti-corruption investigations makes him a fitting choice for the Commission, which functions as one of the central mechanisms for monitoring governance and institutional performance in Pakistan.

Role in High-Profile Investigations

During his service at NAB Rawalpindi, Irfan Baig became widely known for his role in some of the most prominent investigations in recent years. Among the cases associated with him are:

• The May 9 Arrest Case – A politically charged matter that drew national attention and scrutiny.
• The £190 Million Case – A complex case involving alleged misuse of funds with international implications.
• Toshakhana References – Investigations into the alleged misappropriation of state gifts, which triggered wide-ranging debates on accountability and transparency.

His direct involvement in these investigations highlights his reputation for managing high-pressure assignments with significant public and political visibility.

Mandate of the Prime Minister’s Inspection Commission

The Prime Minister’s Inspection Commission serves as a central body for improving governance and ensuring accountability across ministries. Its primary responsibilities include:

• Monitoring Governance – Keeping a close watch on federal and provincial governance systems to ensure efficiency.
• Reviewing Institutional Performance – Assessing how ministries and departments function, particularly in the implementation of public policy.
• Recommending Reforms – Advising the government on structural reforms that can improve service delivery and enhance transparency.

By including Irfan Baig, the government signals a greater emphasis on accountability and institutional performance evaluation. His investigative experience may strengthen the Commission’s ability to identify inefficiencies and recommend corrective actions.

Expected Impact of Irfan Baig’s Appointment

Baig’s appointment is anticipated to add weight to the PMIC’s oversight activities. Several key impacts are expected:

• Strengthened Accountability Mechanisms – With his NAB background, Baig can provide sharper scrutiny of ministry practices.
• Enhanced Credibility of Oversight – The inclusion of an officer experienced in major corruption inquiries may bolster public confidence in the Commission’s work.
• Support for Governance Reforms – Baig’s exposure to systemic loopholes during his investigations positions him well to advise on reforms that can plug weaknesses in governance.
• Closer Review of Institutional Practices – His investigative expertise will likely assist the Commission in identifying patterns of inefficiency and recommending targeted reforms.

Significance for Federal Governance

The federal government’s decision to bring Irfan Baig on board underscores the growing recognition of the need for strong monitoring and inspection mechanisms. In a political and administrative environment where transparency and accountability are under constant public debate, his presence in the Commission could serve as a stabilizing factor.

The appointment also reflects the government’s ongoing effort to ensure that critical oversight positions are filled by individuals with proven competence in accountability matters. As governance reforms continue to be a priority, such strategic appointments can play a vital role in shaping the trajectory of public sector performance.