The federal cabinet has approved the abolition of approximately 150,000 vacant positions in the federal government, alongside amendments to the Army Act to provide financial packages for employees affected by the government’s rightsizing efforts.
A spokesperson from the Cabinet Division confirmed to The News that the rightsizing committee’s proposal, which was previously approved by the prime minister, has now been formally endorsed by the cabinet.
According to the cabinet’s decision, 60% of the vacant posts—estimated to be around 150,000—will either be abolished or declared “dying posts.” In an effort to reduce the pension burden, the cabinet has also decided to outsource non-core services, such as cleaning, plumbing, and gardening. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce the number of BS 1-16 staff in the federal government.
Additionally, the cabinet approved the elimination of all contingency posts within ministries and divisions.
Several amendments to the Civil Servants Act of 1973 have also been approved to provide financial packages for employees affected by the rightsizing process. These amendments, proposed by the Establishment Division, will enable the federal government to offer a balanced severance package to the civil servants concerned, balancing their rights with the responsibilities of the government.
Under the changes, affected civil servants will have the right to appeal within seven days to a committee formed by the prime minister, which must respond within 30 days. If a civil servant rejects the severance package, their services may be terminated.
The committee handling these appeals will consist of retired judges from superior courts, with the Law and Justice Division tasked with proposing its composition and terms.
This decision follows reporting by senior journalist Rana Ghulan Qadir of Daily Jang during the proposal stages.
