PM admonishes Islamabad commissioner, IGP over display of ‘pomp and show’ at Independence Day parade

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was displeased with the lavish display of "pomp and show" by Islamabad's top officials during the Independence Day parade. He directed the Islamabad Inspector General of Police and Chief Commissioner to ensure such conduct does not happen again. The prime minister expressed "deep disappointment and displeasure" over the officials' appearance in a ceremonial horse-drawn buggy, stating it projected an image of "privilege, ostentation and personal aggrandisement" that contradicted the ethos of public service.

Both officials were reminded to demonstrate humility, restraint, dignity and sound judgment, as their actions undermined public confidence in public institutions. The reprimand came days after a video of the incident went viral, drawing criticism for resembling a colonial-era display of authority and privilege. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi defended the officials, stating they were delayed due to a meeting between the president and prime minister, and the horse carriage was originally meant for the chief guest.