M. Waqar Bhatti
Islamabad: Polio eradication efforts and routine immunization programs in Pakistan suffered a potential setback as federal health authorities gave look-after charge of the Director General (DG) of the Federal Directorate of Immunization (FDI) to Zafar Iqbal Channa, a male nurse by profession who served as Nursing Instructor/Superintendent at PIMS Islamabad.
The Federal Directorate of Immunization (FDI), which oversees the immunization of children in Pakistan, also manages the procurement of vaccines, syringes, safety boxes, and incinerators worth Rs. 15 to 20 billion annually, making it a critical institution in the country’s health infrastructure.
Following retirement of Dr. Ahmed Kazi from FDI on 21st December 2024, the acting director general of the FDI is supposed to make decisions regarding procurement of vaccines and incinerators worth billions of rupees, making it a lucrative position at the moment, www.vitalsnews.com learnt on Tuesday.
Zafar Iqbal Channa, who was transferred to FDI by former Health Minister Abdul Qadir Patel of the Pakistan People’s Party during the coalition PDM government, lacks the requisite qualifications and experience outlined for the position, officials said.
According to the advertised criteria, the DG of FDI must hold a basic medical degree with postgraduate qualifications in public health and extensive experience in disease control and immunization.
Zafar Iqbal Channa, instead, holds an MSc in Nursing and diplomas in Educational Planning and Management as well as Hospital Administration and HRM.
Federal health ministry officials revealed that three qualified candidates, including former DG FDI Dr. Akram Shah, currently serving as District Health Officer (DHO) Nowshera, PIMS radiologist Dr. Ayesha Issani, and NIRM Executive Director Shaista Habib, were shortlisted for the post.
All these candidates were interviewed by Federal Health Secretary Nadeem Mahbub along with other senior officials, and one of them was expected to be appointed as the DG of FDI.
However, “under pressure from higher authorities,” the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination handed acting charge of the crucial institution to Channa, who has no prior experience in public health, immunization, or financial management.
The appointment comes at a time when Pakistan’s immunization coverage is alarmingly low, with national rates not exceeding 60% and some areas reporting as little as 30-40%.
Thousands of children die annually from vaccine-preventable diseases, including measles, diphtheria, and tetanus, while health programs often suffer from the appointment of non-professional and corrupt officials.
This decision has sparked outrage among health experts, who fear it could derail efforts to combat polio. Pakistan has reported 65 polio cases this year, with over 60% involving zero-dose children.
Officials argue that focusing on immunization is essential, but the latest appointment may lead to further negligence in vaccination efforts.
An official from the Ministry, speaking on condition of anonymity, claimed that the appointment was made under directives from influential quarters.
“There are powerful quarters behind such postings who are unconcerned about children’s health. They prioritize their own interests and appoint misfits to key positions,” the official said.
International organizations, including the Polio Oversight Board (POB), recently urged Pakistan to integrate its polio and routine immunization programs to improve coverage and efficiency. However, the appointment of Channa, experts fear, may undermine these efforts.
As FDI prepares to procure vaccines, syringes, safety boxes, and incinerators worth Rs. 15 to 20 billions in the weeks ahead, concerns grow over whether the new appointee can competently oversee such critical tasks.
Health authorities must now address the ramifications of this controversial decision and its potential impact on Pakistan’s fragile immunization framework.
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