Islamabad: Despite urgent staff needs, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has once again postponed interviews for key regulatory posts—Assistant Directors, Deputy Directors, and Federal Drug Inspectors—reportedly on directives from the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination (MoNHSRC), drawing criticism over the delay despite an acute staffing crisis.
According to a notice issued by DRAP’s HR Directorate, interviews scheduled from July 31 to August 3, 2025, in Lahore have been postponed due to unspecified “administrative reasons.”
The abrupt decision came despite approvals from the DRAP Policy Board, formation of panels, and notifications sent to hundreds of shortlisted candidates.
“This was directed by the federal health ministry,” a DRAP official disclosed, adding that the authority is keen to complete the recruitment process to address a critical shortfall of nearly 100 regulatory staff.
“Without new appointments, DRAP cannot effectively regulate Pakistan’s vast pharmaceutical and medical devices industry.”
The recruitment process, advertised in August 2024 with written tests held by HEC in December, has now faced its second cancellation.
Officials warn that restarting the process may invite litigation, as some candidates risk exceeding age limits. Millions have already been spent on testing.
“This is not a mere postponement—it’s a governance failure,” said a health expert. As DRAP faces mounting pressure to tackle counterfeit drugs and enforce manufacturing standards, further delays could seriously impact public health.
While DRAP remains committed to completing the process, officials say the hiring can only move forward if the ministry refrains from further interference. The Ministry of NHSR&C has not publicly commented on the postponement. DRAP’s CEO could not be reached.
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