PESHAWAR: The Peshawar High Court on Friday heard a petition challenging the provincial government’s delay in the appointment of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Paraplegic Centre.
The case was presided over by Justice Syed Arshad Ali and Justice Abdul Fayyaz, who issued formal notices to the provincial government, the Chief Secretary, and the Secretary of Health, seeking their response on the matter. During the hearing, Advocate Adnan Aman, representing the petitioner, informed the court that the Board of Directors of the Paraplegic Centre had already approved the appointment of a CEO, but despite the passage of three months, no official notification had been issued.
The lawyer further argued that on June 12, the Health Secretary instead assigned Dr. Amir Zaib, the current Director of Rehabilitation at the centre, as acting CEO, granting him additional charge in contradiction to the Board’s decision. “If the Board has already approved the appointment of a permanent CEO, then how can an additional charge be given to another official?” the bench questioned.
Advocate Adnan Aman reiterated his plea, emphasising that the authorities had failed to notify of the appointment of his client despite a clear recommendation from the governing body. Taking note of the arguments, the court issued notices to the provincial authorities, instructing them to submit their replies in the upcoming hearing.
The Paraplegic Centre Peshawar (PCP) is a specialised medical and rehabilitation facility located in Hayatabad, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It was established with the mission to provide comprehensive care, rehabilitation, and social reintegration for individuals suffering from spinal cord injuries and related physical disabilities.
Initially developed to serve injured soldiers and victims of conflict in the tribal areas, the centre has since expanded its services to civilian patients across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and beyond. It is the only dedicated paraplegic facility in Pakistan that offers free or subsidised long-term treatment, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, psychological counselling, prosthetics, and vocational training. The centre plays a vital role in helping patients regain independence and re-enter society.
It operates under a Board of Directors, and its functioning is supported by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Department. The position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is a key administrative role responsible for strategic planning, operations, fundraising, and liaising with government and donor agencies. Despite its achievements, the centre has often faced administrative and funding challenges, including delays in high-level appointments, which can affect its long-term planning and service delivery.
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