Capt. (Retd.) Muhammad Mahmood has been assigned additional charge as Federal Health Secretary for three months or until a permanent appointment is made.
The BS-21 officer, who currently serves as Secretary Housing and Works, will oversee the National Health Services Division following the 120-day suspension of Health Secretary Muhammad Aslam Ghauri.
Ghauri was suspended after 14 newborns reportedly died in a fire at the PIMS nursery in Islamabad. A high-level inquiry committee, led by former interior secretary Shahid Khan, is investigating the incident, including alleged negligence, fire-safety arrangements and the response of relevant officials.
Health Minister Mustafa Kamal has vowed accountability for anyone found responsible.
