The federal and Punjab governments have decided to retain Chief Secretary Punjab Zahid Akhtar Zaman in his current position, ensuring administrative continuity across the province. According to sources, it was widely expected that the chief secretary would be replaced upon the completion of a specific phase of his tenure, but the top-level proposal to transfer him was ultimately turned down.

Zahid Akhtar Zaman was originally appointed as the Chief Secretary Punjab on 23 January 2023, during the caretaker setup while he was serving in Grade-21. Last year on 23 March, the prime minister promoted him to Grade-22 on the strong recommendation of the High-Powered Selection Board.

He still has two years of official government service remaining before his superannuation, making him a stable choice for the administrative helm. According to informed administrative sources, the decision to retain him was taken in view of his outstanding performance and unwavering professionalism over the past three years and nine months.

He has played a pivotal role, under the vision and leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, in implementing major administrative, financial, and reform initiatives across the province. These comprehensive initiatives include the flagship Suthra Punjab project, extensive financial and pension reforms, and Public Financial Management (PFM) for transparent budgeting.

Other notable achievements under his watch include property tax expansion, digital land record computerization, and targeted development projects in education, health, agriculture, and information technology. Political and administrative analysts added that retaining a seasoned bureaucrat of his stature will ensure policy continuity and effective administrative implementation within the provincial bureaucracy.