ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday admitted a petition for regular hearing against the appointment of Ali Jahangir Siddiqui as Pakistan’s ambassador to the US.

The petition was filed by Advocate Shahzad Siddique Alvi through his counsels Barrister Sajeel Shehryar and Chaudhry Hassan Murtaza Mann.

The petitioner cited secretaries Cabinet Division and Foreign Affairs and the principle secretary to the prime minister as respondents.

The petitioner has contended that Ali Jahangir was first appointed as special assistant to the prime minister with the status of minister for state before appointing him as ambassador to the US.

He said that the said appointment was non-transparent, illegal, in violation of the Constitution and judgments of the superior courts.

According to the petitioner, Ali Jahangir, the son of Jahangir Siddiqui, is part of JS Groups and has been nominated in criminal investigations.

The petitioner has requested the court to set aside the said appointment and that the respondent authorities be directed to appoint an ambassador to the US who is known for their experience, achievements and eminence in the arena of diplomacy.

Published in Dawn, April 3rd, 2018