PESHAWAR: Awami National Party (ANP) has demanded replacement of Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Major General (R) Hafiz Rahman, following his public apology to ANP leader Senator Aimal Wali Khan.

The provincial spokesman of ANP Arsalan Nazim in a statement here on Thursday stated that the PTA chairman’s apology to Aimal Wali Khan, a representative of a party with a century-long struggle, was a ‘historic moment’.

The ANP spokesperson emphasised that retired generals and officials were accountable to civilian representatives and must respect them.

The ANP leader demanded the removal of PTA chairman and other retired individuals from key positions, citing their inability to perform their duties effectively.

He strongly criticised the PTA chairman’s behaviour, stating that it reflected the arrogance of the elite and a lack of respect for civilian representatives.

The party reaffirmed its commitment to hold those in power accountable and ensure that institutions were to be led by capable and professional individuals.

The ANP called for an end to the practice of appointing retired individuals to key positions and demanded that institutions be run by merit-based leadership.

The party will continue its struggle for accountability and good governance, he added.

Published in Dawn, May 23rd, 2025