The appointment has raised eyebrows as it comes amid the government’s ongoing austerity drive.

Rehmani, who retired in BS-20, has been appointed in a BS-22 equivalent pay scale, a significant jump from his previous position. He will serve in the Nursing and Allied Health Professionals Capacity Building sector, performing duties as Director of Project Implementation.

The contract is for one year and may be extended further depending on performance and departmental needs. Sources indicate that Rehmani’s experience in administrative and health policy roles was a key factor in his selection.

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While officials defend the appointment as a merit-based decision to strengthen health initiatives, critics argue that assigning such a high salary to a retired official contradicts the government’s austerity measures. The decision has sparked debate over balancing expertise with fiscal prudence in government appointments.