A bureaucrat is a career civil servant or government official responsible for executing laws, policies, and decisions made by elected representatives. The term originates from “bureau” (desk or office) and “kratos” (rule), meaning rule by office or administration through officials.
Bureaucrats in Pakistan — Context and Role
In Pakistan, bureaucrats form the civil service structure, working in both federal and provincial governments. They ensure continuity, efficiency, and stability within the state’s administrative machinery — regardless of which political party is in power.
The Civil Service of Pakistan (CSP) was originally modeled after the British colonial system, later restructured into multiple cadres and occupational groups under the Central Superior Services (CSS) framework.
Key Roles:
- Implementing laws, development programs, and public policies.
- Managing ministries, divisions, and attached departments.
- Providing advice to ministers and ensuring decisions are legally and procedurally sound.
- Supervising field administration such as districts and tehsils.
Appointments & Structure:
- Recruitment is done through the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) via the CSS Exam.
- Officers are grouped into services like the Pakistan Administrative Service (PAS), Police Service of Pakistan (PSP), Foreign Service, and others.
- They report to political executives but are protected by service laws for neutrality and continuity.
Importance of Bureaucracy in Pakistan
Bureaucrats play a central role in:
- Maintaining state function during political instability.
- Executing development plans like infrastructure and social programs.
- Advising the government on technical, legal, and procedural matters.
- Acting as intermediaries between the public and political leadership.
Criticism often revolves around bureaucratic red tape, corruption, or slow decision-making — issues successive governments have tried to reform through civil service reforms.
Examples of Notable Bureaucrats in Pakistan
- Ahad Cheema – Senior civil servant, known for roles in Punjab’s planning and development.
- Fawad Hasan Fawad – Former Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister.
- Dr. Ishrat Husain – Served as adviser on institutional reforms and governance.
- Shoaib Mir Memon – Noted PAS officer and administrative reformist.
- Nasir Mahmood Khosa – Former Chief Secretary Punjab and Federal Secretary.