ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): Former Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir, Farooq Haider, has warned that the continued practice of hiring people based on recommendations instead of merit could destroy the region’s system. He said that if the social structure collapses, the political system will not survive either.
Speaking at a gathering in Jammu & Kashmir House Islamabad, Farooq Haider emphasized the importance of justice in the system. He added that political parties are losing their relevance, and it’s time for all parties to unite and decide how to take the state toward sustainable progress.
He pointed out that government jobs are the biggest source of employment in Azad Kashmir, and these jobs must be given strictly on merit.
Farooq Haider reminded that during his tenure, laws were introduced to ensure merit-based recruitment through NTS (National Testing Service) and Public Service Commission (PSC). The idea was to take hiring power away from politicians. He criticized the current government, saying they only held the NTS exam under pressure, but now they are giving ad-hoc appointments to candidates on the waiting list.
He explained that Azad Kashmir’s system rests on three pillars:
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The constitution, under which the legislature, judiciary, and administration function.
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The political system, where everyone represents their respective parties.
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The social structure, where people remain divided by language and tribal affiliations.
Speaking at Jammu & Kashmir House Islamabad during meetings with former minister and PML-N Vice President Sardar Tahir Anwar and other delegations, Farooq Haider shared that he has been active in politics for 40 years and is well aware of the issues in every constituency of Azad Kashmir.
He called on the government to uphold merit, stating that “history is not so cruel as to deny you credit for doing the right thing.” He urged all political forces to agree that nepotism must end and pure merit must prevail. “Every sincere politician wants this, but is often compelled by political compromises,” he said.
Recalling his own experience in politics, Farooq Haider said he had faced opposition from major tribal groups in the last election but still won with the support of the poor and underrepresented communities. “If I had relied on clan politics, I wouldn’t have been elected even to the local council,” he added.
