The dispute between Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Governor Saleem Haider regarding the appointment of vice chancellors in Punjab’s universities on Thursday intensified as both sides issued statements to clarify their positions in this regard.
In an informal conversation with journalists in Lahore, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz stated that the governor could have rejected any objections he had regarding the vice chancellors’ appointments.
She emphasized that the matter revolves around Punjab University, asserting that they have appointed vice chancellors based on merit and transparency, while the governor wishes to install his own vice chancellor at Punjab University.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz mentioned that she preferred merit, despite receiving numerous recommendations from MNAs and MPAs, but she did not listen to any of them.
“I work from 9 AM to midnight,” she added.
On the other hand, Governor Saleem Haider remarked that the Punjab government’s summary was rejected because concerns were raised about the process. He clarified that he has no desire to appoint anyone as vice chancellor and that no one has the courage to offer him even two rupees.
He challenged anyone to name a candidate he allegedly wishes to appoint, questioning whether the same individuals presented by the search committee are the only options in all of Punjab. He asserted that there is no conflict or fight involved.
In her informal remarks, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also mentioned that the police department is installing cameras with uniforms to eliminate bribery, stating that no police officer would serve duty without this uniform.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also said that significant drug operations in colleges and universities had led to the capture of large gangs, which brought drugs in various forms using private jets for distribution.
