Pakistan approves creation of witness protection board
The cabinet of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province has approved the establishment of a Witness Protection Board and two units in accordance with the Witness Protection Act 2021. The decision was made at a meeting chaired by provincial Chief Minister Sohail Afridi.
Protection of participants in proceedings
As Dawn reports, the board will develop policy guidelines, monitor their implementation and oversee the work of the two units.
Provincial Information Minister Shafi Jan said that the law was adopted to protect witnesses and other persons connected with sensitive criminal proceedings. This includes, in particular, participants in the investigation, prosecution and trial of crimes, including those related to terrorism.
According to Jan, the establishment of the board and units is provided for by the provisions of the law and the rules adopted for its implementation.
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Other cabinet decisions
The cabinet also approved the conclusion of a new agreement between governments with revised rates for printing and supplying vehicle registration documents. These include polycarbonate smart cards, registration books and adhesive stickers in accordance with the Motor Vehicles Ordinance 1965.
In addition, the provincial government approved a two-month special remission of sentence for convicts who meet the established criteria, in a matter under consideration. An official notification is planned to be issued in accordance with the applicable rules and previous practice.
The cabinet decided to refer to the Council of Common Interests the issue of the mechanism for water distribution and supply between Galiyat and Murree. It covers rates, arrears and supply volumes. The submission to the provincial assembly of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa ombudsman office’s annual report for 2025 was also approved.
