Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal to wait for the completion of the inquiry into the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) fire before making any decision regarding his resignation.
The directive comes amid growing public and political pressure following the tragic fire at the Mother and Child Healthcare Centre at PIMS, which resulted in the deaths of 14 newborn babies and sparked demands for accountability.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had constituted a high-powered inquiry committee to investigate the incident, determine its causes and identify those responsible for any negligence or failure to follow safety procedures.
Health Minister Mustafa Kamal has maintained that the inquiry should be allowed to establish responsibility before any final decision is taken regarding his position. He has also said that those found responsible should face action, regardless of their rank or position.
The investigation has reportedly examined available evidence, including video footage, eyewitness accounts and official records, to determine how the fire started and whether safety protocols were properly implemented.
Meanwhile, the government has initiated action against officials allegedly linked to negligence in the incident. The prime minister has ordered the suspension of several officials and directed that legal proceedings be initiated where warranted.
The development has placed renewed focus on the administration of PIMS and the broader state of safety measures at public hospitals.
Officials are now awaiting the final inquiry report, which is expected to provide a clearer account of the incident and recommend further disciplinary or legal action.
The report is also likely to determine whether Mustafa Kamal will continue in his position or whether his resignation will be considered in light of the findings.