In a crucial and landmark ruling, the Peshawar High Court (PHC) has strictly prohibited the use of government machinery and public resources in political activities, rallies, and large-scale public marches. The court issued a detailed four-page written order, establishing new boundaries for the conduct of political parties and government functionaries.
The court’s order stated clearly that utilizing the national treasury’s resources for political activities constitutes a waste of public funds and is a direct violation of Articles 4, 5, and 25 of the Constitution. The PHC stressed the imperative for the state to draw a clear distinction between official state functions and purely political endeavors.
Furthermore, the judgment categorically declared that employing public resources for any political activity falls under the category of “abuse of authority.” The petitioner had argued during the proceedings that the provincial government habitually utilizes state employees and machinery for its gatherings, which not only squanders resources but also creates an unfair political landscape.
The petition also highlighted the complexity of the issue, noting that some of the provincial government’s machinery previously used in political protests remains under federal custody. The Peshawar High Court’s directive is viewed as a vital step towards ensuring the responsible utilization of public assets and promoting political equity in the region.
