PMDC faces internal turmoil after mass transfers, appointments and extension of president’s tenure

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council is facing internal administrative tensions following extensive staff appointments and transfers, as well as a one-year extension granted to its president.

The Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination has extended the tenure of PMDC President Dr Rizwan Taj from April 14, 2026, to April 10, 2027, according to an official notification. His previous term had been due to end in May 2026. Dr Taj also serves as Dean of Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University and is reported to be drawing salary and benefits for both roles.

At the same time, newly appointed Registrar Brigadier (Retd) Dr Rehan Naqvi has overseen a series of transfers involving junior staff. Employees who had long been posted in Islamabad have reportedly been reassigned to locations including Gilgit, Karachi, Quetta, Peshawar and Lahore. Sources say the relocation process has continued for roughly three months.

In a separate move, the registrar appointed a Director Legal to handle ongoing court matters, stating that the selection was based on merit. However, the official, described as being linked to a prominent law chamber in Rawalpindi, was removed within a month over alleged poor performance. Sources claim the dismissal took place without consultation with the council’s Member Legal, raising concerns about adherence to procedures.

Staff within the council have reportedly voiced anxiety over what they describe as a climate of uncertainty and pressure, with allegations of misuse of authority also emerging.

Multiple complaints have reportedly been submitted to Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal, but no formal response has been issued so far.

When contacted, a PMDC spokesperson declined to comment on the situation.