Islamabad, The Pakistan Islamic Medical Association (PIMA) has raised serious concerns over the establishment of a Task Force on Medical Education and Patient Care by the Central Government, deeming it an unconstitutional move by the Caretaker Government. PIMA’s stance brings into question the caretaker government’s adherence to constitutional boundaries in Pakistan.

According to Pakistan Islamic Medical Association, the association’s Central Executive Council adopted a joint resolution criticizing the establishment of the Task Force. Announced on December 18, 2023, but established at the end of November, the Task Force, according to PIMA, exceeded the constitutional powers of the caretaker government. PIMA highlighted that this action contradicts Chapter 14, Section 230, Subsection 2-C of the Constitution, which restricts the autonomy of the caretaker government.

PIMA emphasized the importance of continuous improvement in medical education and patient care but stressed that such efforts require transparency, collective action, and policies consistent with national requirements. The association pointed out the need for initiatives in medical education and training to align with the realities of Pakistan’s predominantly rural population.

The association called for broader representation in the Task Force, including all relevant stakeholders, to address the complexities of improving patient care. PIMA urged the caretaker government to respect its constitutional limits and leave the formation of such Task Forces to the elected government. The association appealed to the Caretaker Prime Minister and the Chief Justice of Pakistan to ensure that caretaker ministers, both central and provincial, adhere to constitutional procedures. PIMA insists that governmental actions must align with the powers outlined in the constitution and that the judiciary should ensure that the caretaker government refrains from actions exceeding these powers.