Senate body calls for review of Islamabad Club’s membership policy

ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat directed the Secretary Establishment and management of the Islamabad Club on Monday to review the club’s policy regarding the grant of its membership.

Senator Saadia Abbasi, chairperson of the Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat, observed during Monday’s meeting that the management of the Islamabad Club, which holds significant authority, should prioritise the country’s interests in running the affairs of the club. The committee members discussed matters relating to reforms in the affairs of Islamabad and the grant of its membership.

Previously, the members of the standing committee were invited to visit the premises of the Islamabad Club and explore the facilities provided there. However, the Senate chairman did not permit the committee to visit the Islamabad Club.

The Secretary Establishment Division briefed the committee members that the Islamabad Club was established through an ordinance promulgated in 1960, initially to grant membership to government officials and foreigners. However, individuals from other segments were later allowed to obtain club membership. He stated that according to the club’s rules, the number of its members could not exceed 10,000, while currently, there are 9,880 members. “We need permission from the Federal Cabinet to increase the membership strength above 10,000,” he said. Senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan suggested that common people, particularly those involved in the social sector, should also be allowed to become club members. Minister for Information and Broadcasting Murtaza Solangi proposed that artists, intellectuals, and writers should be considered for membership. Senator Kamil Ali Agha questioned why the membership fee, which is already deposited by applicants, is increased later.

The in-charge of the Islamabad Club informed the committee that tenders worth Rs 500 million have been floated for development works at the club without receiving any funds from the government. He also mentioned that the management was working on the installation of a solar system as electricity bills have exceeded Rs35 million per year.