Abstract
The purpose of this research is to explore barriers inhibiting the effectiveness of leadership in public sector in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. A sample of thirty (n=30) employees were  selected from education, health and agriculture departments in KP. In order to conduct in-depth analysis of the phenomenon, qualitative mood of inquiry was adopted. Data was collected from  top, middle and lower management through semi-structure interview and it was analyzed through thematic analysis. It was concluded that public sector organizations such as agriculture,  health and education are confronted with leadership crisis. There are poor communication skills, lack of relevant knowledge and expertise, managerial focus and inappropriate leadership  style. The crises of organizational leadership are due to number of barriers such as lack of training and development, bureaucratic culture, undue political interference, lack of accountability and corruption. Due to  these barriers, organizational leadership cannot play its instrumental role in organizational development, strategic focus and employees’ teamwork and motivation.
Keywords: Leadership effectiveness, Public sector, Barriers, Organizations