Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has taken serious notice of senior Islamabad officials riding a ceremonial horse-drawn buggy at an official Independence Day event, calling the display of pomp and privilege unacceptable for public servants.

The incident took place during the August 14, 2026 Independence Day ceremony, where Islamabad Chief Commissioner and Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad reportedly rode in a ceremonial buggy to watch the parade and event.

The Prime Minister has expressed disappointment over the incident and directed the government to immediately end the growing culture of pomp, show and personal projection among civil servants and government officials.

According to an official directive issued by the Establishment Division on August 20, the Prime Minister said the buggy ride attracted widespread public criticism and projected an image of privilege, ostentation and personal aggrandizement that was inconsistent with the principles of public service.

The directive stressed that civil servants hold public office in trust for the people and are expected to demonstrate humility, restraint, dignity and sound judgment at all times.

The Prime Minister said such conduct can damage public confidence in government institutions and does not meet the standards expected from senior civil servants and government officials.

The Establishment Division has directed Federal Secretaries to ensure that the instructions are followed by ministries, divisions, attached departments, subordinate offices and autonomous bodies under their administrative control.

The Prime Minister has specifically ordered that the culture of pomp and show, unnecessary display and personal publicity among government officials be brought to an end with immediate effect.

The directive calls on government officials to maintain simplicity, dignity and humility while attending official functions.