Highlighting a critical governance gap, Transparency International Pakistan has warned that the continued delay in appointing the Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) is weakening the implementation of Sindh’s Right to Information (RTI) law and undermining transparency.
In a letter dated April 29, 2026, addressed to Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, TIP drew attention to the prolonged vacancy in the office of the Chief Information Commissioner, a position mandated under Section 12(3) of the Sindh Transparency and Right to Information Act, 2016.
The organisation pointed out that under Clause 12(5) of the law, the Sindh Information Commission must be headed by a Chief Information Commissioner—preferably a retired senior government servant not below BPS-20—appointed by the government to ensure the Commission’s effective functioning.
Despite clear legal provisions, TIP noted that the tenure of the previous CIC has already expired, and the position has since remained vacant, raising serious concerns about the operational capacity of the Sindh Information Commission.
The letter emphasized that the Commission is a cornerstone institution responsible for enforcing citizens’ right to access information, a constitutional guarantee under Article 19-A. The absence of its head, TIP warned, could significantly impair the Commission’s ability to perform its duties and ensure compliance with the RTI law.
TIP further cautioned that a non-functional or weakened Information Commission could adversely impact transparency, accountability, and public trust in governance across the province. It stressed that timely appointment of the CIC is essential to uphold the spirit and effectiveness of the Sindh RTI Act 2016.
Calling for immediate action, TIP urged the Chief Minister to issue directives for the appointment of the Chief Information Commissioner without further delay to restore the Commission’s functionality and ensure effective implementation of the law.
Reaffirming its commitment, TIP stated that it continues to advocate for across-the-board application of the rule of law, terming it the only viable path to curb corruption and achieve zero tolerance against corrupt practices.
