Pakistan’s Media Regulator Pemra Remains Headless Amid Appointment Delay
Islamabad: Pakistan’s electronic media regulator, the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra), continues to operate without a permanent chairperson months after the position fell vacant, as the Prime Minister’s Office has yet to approve the appointment of Ambreen Jan despite parliamentary clearance.
Pemra has remained headless since October 2025, even though the parliamentary committee finalised and forwarded its recommendation more than a month ago. Ambreen Jan, a former federal secretary for information, was selected through the legally mandated process and would become the first woman to lead the media watchdog if approved.
Appointment Stalled Over Security Clearance Objections
According to informed sources, the summary for Ambreen Jan’s appointment has been held up at the Prime Minister’s Office due to objections linked to security clearance, delaying onward transmission to the Presidency for final approval.
Jan is a retired Grade-22 officer with extensive experience in Pakistan’s information and broadcasting sector. Her previous roles include federal secretary for information, director general of Radio Pakistan, and managing director of Pakistan Television (PTV).
She also served as Pakistan’s press counsellor in Bangladesh from 2011 to 2018, a period marked by strained diplomatic relations between Islamabad and Dhaka.
Parliamentary Process Completed
Ambreen Jan was shortlisted along with four other candidates, including a retired military officer and senior media professionals. After further scrutiny, the final list was narrowed to three contenders, with the parliamentary committee ultimately recommending Jan for the position.
Under amendments to the Pemra Act, a bipartisan parliamentary committee — comprising members from both the National Assembly and the Senate — is responsible for recommending the chairperson. The committee completed its work and forwarded its decision over a month ago.
Despite this, the appointment remains stalled, leaving the regulator without leadership at a time of growing challenges for Pakistan’s electronic media sector.
Leadership Vacuum Raises Concerns
The prolonged absence of a permanent chairperson has raised concerns within media circles about regulatory delays, policy stagnation, and weakened oversight. Pemra plays a central role in regulating television channels, FM radio, cable networks, satellite broadcasting, and direct-to-home (DTH) services across the country.
The authority is mandated to improve standards of information, education, and entertainment while ensuring responsible dissemination of news, cultural content, and public-interest programming.
Background of Previous Chairpersons
The last Pemra chairperson completed his term in September 2025 after serving as the longest-tenured head of the authority. His predecessor was removed following a court ruling, highlighting the politically sensitive nature of the post.
With the regulator already operating under pressure from legal, political, and industry stakeholders, continued uncertainty over leadership has further complicated its functioning.
Growing Pressure for Resolution
As the delay continues, pressure is mounting on the Prime Minister’s Office to clear the appointment and restore institutional stability at Pemra. Media analysts warn that prolonged indecision could undermine regulatory credibility and governance at a critical moment for Pakistan’s media landscape.