Charge of Immunization Directorate withdrawn from male nurse following PM inquiry

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M. Waqar Bhatti

Islamabad: The federal health authorities have withdrawn the look-after charge of the Federal Directorate of Immunization (FDI) from Zafar Iqbal Channa, a male nurse and nursing superintendent at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), following an inquiry initiated by the Prime Minister’s Office.

The decision comes after directives from the PM’s office led to an inquiry conducted by the Secretary Cabinet. As a result, Channa has been removed from his role as acting Director General of the FDI, and the charge has been handed over to Dr. Shahabana Saleem, the Director General of Health.

“Following an inquiry conducted by the Secretary Cabinet on directives from the PM’s office, nursing superintendent Zafar Iqbal Channa has been removed as acting Director General of FDI. Dr. Shahabana Saleem has been assigned the look-after charge of the FDI,” a senior official of the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination (NHS, R&C) told www.vitalsnews.com.

The official added that Channa would soon be repatriated to his original position at PIMS, and the Ministry has advertised the post of DG FDI to initiate the recruitment of a permanent official.

The Federal Directorate of Immunization plays a critical role in Pakistan’s health infrastructure, managing the procurement of vaccines, syringes, safety boxes, and incinerators worth Rs. 15 to 20 billion annually. It also oversees immunization programs crucial for combating polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases.

The appointment of Channa had sparked widespread criticism due to his lack of qualifications and experience in public health, immunization, and financial management. Despite holding an MSc in Nursing and diplomas in Educational Planning and Management, Hospital Administration, and HRM, Channa did not meet the advertised criteria for the DG FDI position, which requires a medical degree with postgraduate qualifications in public health.

The controversy deepened as three qualified candidates, including former DG FDI Dr. Akram Shah, were shortlisted and interviewed for the position. However, under alleged pressure from influential quarters, the acting charge was given to Channa, raising concerns over his ability to manage the FDI’s critical responsibilities.

Health experts had expressed alarm over the decision, highlighting the risks it posed to Pakistan’s already fragile immunization efforts. With national immunization coverage below 60% and polio cases rising to 65 this year, the appointment was seen as a potential threat to ongoing polio eradication and routine immunization programs.

Federal authorities are now taking steps to address the issue. The Ministry’s decision to assign the look-after charge to Dr. Shahabana Saleem and initiate the process for a permanent appointment has been welcomed by experts who emphasize the need for qualified leadership to oversee immunization programs effectively.

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