Shehbaz Sharif Urges Punctuality in Pakistan’s Government Offices

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Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has mandated stricter office hours and reduced weekly holidays to boost efficiency in government offices, reflecting his reputation for discipline.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has introduced sweeping changes to enhance productivity in government offices. On his first day as prime minister in 2022, Sharif arrived at the Prime Minister’s Office at 7:00 AM, setting a precedent for punctuality. He directed that federal government offices operate six days a week, abolishing the previous two-day weekend, and shifted start times from 10:00 AM to 8:00 AM, later adjusted to 7:30 AM in 2023. These measures aim to address Pakistan’s economic challenges by improving public sector efficiency, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.

Sharif’s reforms have sparked mixed reactions. Supporters, including PML-N member Adeel Sarfraz, argue that the extended workweek is essential for a nation facing economic strain, with inflation hovering around 30%. “Pakistan needs to work hard,” Sarfraz stated, as reported by The Print. The Prime Minister’s Office emphasized that these changes align with Sharif’s vision to streamline governance and ensure public servants prioritize service delivery. Additionally, Sharif ordered strict monitoring of Ramadan bazaars to provide affordable goods, reinforcing his focus on public welfare.

Critics, however, question the effectiveness of longer hours. The Tribune reported that some Pakistanis view the move as regressive, potentially overburdening bureaucrats without guaranteed results. Despite the debate, Sharif’s early office arrivals have pressured officials to comply, with reports of staff rushing to meet the new schedule to avoid reprimands.

The policy reflects Sharif’s administrative style, honed during his tenure as Chief Minister of Punjab, where he prioritized infrastructure and governance reforms. The Prime Minister’s Office stated that these changes are part of broader austerity measures, including cabinet members paying personal utility bills and returning luxury vehicles. As Pakistan navigates economic recovery, Sharif’s emphasis on discipline aims to set a tone of accountability, though its long-term impact remains under scrutiny.