ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet is set for an expansion, with the inclusion of around 15 new ministers and advisers, according to sources. The oath-taking ceremony for the new members is scheduled for February 27.
Mustafa Kamal of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) is one of the key figures expected to join the cabinet, along with Hanif Abbasi and Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), and Khalid Magsi from the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP).
Sources indicated that the cabinet reshuffle could also involve reassignment of portfolios, with some ministers possibly being removed. These decisions were made following talks between the president and prime minister.
Abbasi is likely to be appointed as the Minister for Railways, while Dr. Chaudhry is expected to head the Ministry of National Health Services. Magsi is reportedly in line to lead the Ministry of Communications, and Kamal is being considered for the Ministry of Science and Technology.
Currently, the Ministry of Science and Technology is headed by Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, who also oversees the Ministry of Federal Education. However, sources confirm that while Kamal may take over the science and technology portfolio, Siddiqui will retain his position as Minister for Federal Education.
