The Institution of the Wafaqi Mohtasib has today completed 41 years of its existence. It was established on 24^th January, 1983 through a Presidential Order with its Head Office in Islamabad and Regional Offices in the 04 provincial capitals. A number of Regional Offices were established subsequently to cater to the increasing number of the complaints. Presently there are 22 Regional Offices and Complaint Centers, covering the length and breadth of the country.

            During the last 41 years, the Office of the Wafaqi Mohtasib resolved the complaints of nearly 2.1 million households. During the outgoing year 2023, the Office of the Wafaqi Mohtasib decided as many as 193,028 complaints. To mark the 41^st year of its existence, simple but impressive ceremonies are being held in all the Regional Offices for observing the momentous occasion. The Wafaqi Mohtasib, Mr. Ejaz Ahmed Qureshi, in a message released on the occasion said that the ever-increasing number of complaints reflects the trust and confidence the general public has in this Institution, which is further being strengthened with each passing day. He also expressed the confidence to achieve the core values of Ombudsmanship including elimination of mal-administration and promotion of good governance to ultimately pave the way for the rule of law and protection of human rights.       

The Wafaqi Mohtasib has issued a message to mark the occasion.

Following is the text of his message:   

            “January 24 holds a special significance in the history of the Office of Wafaqi Mohtasib since it came into existence on this day 41 years ago in 1983. By the grace of Allah, the institution has followed a positive trajectory and successfully provided speedy and free of cost administrative justice to millions of households, particularly the disadvantaged and the marginalized segments of our society. Having made a modest beginning with four Regional Offices in the Provincial capitals four decades ago, it stands today as a premier Agency of administrative accountability with presence in various parts of the country.

 The ever-increasing number of complaints received in our Offices is a clear manifestation of the trust and confidence of the people in the capacity of our institution to address issues of maladministration, inefficiency, neglect and discrimination. In order to build upon the groundswell of support and goodwill from the general public, we need to employ   best of our abilities and skills in providing our services closer to their homes.

As we embark upon the new year, the goal of enhancing the institution’s outreach and accessibility shall continue to receive our special attention. This will require opening of Regional Offices/Sub-Offices, holding Khuli Katcheries in remote areas and inspection visits to improve service delivery of those agencies generating persistent complaints. Raising awareness of the general public about the mandate and scope of our work by maintaining regular interaction with the electronic/print media and periodic awareness lectures shall add value to our efforts in this direction.

            Let us today renew our commitment to the cause of ombudsmanship, particularly the      steadfast adherence to its core values i.e. promotion and protection of human rights, good governance and the rule of law. I am confident that with our collective efforts, we shall realize the goals and objectives of the President’s Order establishing the Office of Wafaqi Mohtasib.”