ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed that the finalization of the caretaker premier’s name would occur by tomorrow (August 12).
According to state-run Radio Pakistan, the prime minister conveyed this during a discussion with journalists in Islamabad. He stated that prior to reaching a conclusive decision, coalition partners would be consulted and informed on the matter.
PM Shehbaz also highlighted that the Constitution allows for an eight-day period to appoint the caretaker premier.
Following the untimely dissolution of the National Assembly, PM Shehbaz engaged with the outgoing Leader of the Opposition in the NA, Raja Riaz, to exchange a list of potential candidates for the significant role as formal consultations commenced.
Riaz, speaking with reporters after the meeting, disclosed that six names were being considered and emphasized that there was no haste in finalizing the caretaker PM’s name.
Further discussions are anticipated as the leaders are set to convene for a second meeting today.
As per the Constitution, the premier and the outgoing opposition leader in the NA possess a three-day window to agree on the interim prime minister’s name. Should consensus, not be reached, the matter will be referred to a parliamentary committee. In the event the committee does not reach a decision, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) will have two days to select the caretaker prime minister from the shared list of names.
PM Shehbaz aims to continue in office till 14 August
Some speculate in political circles that PM Shehbaz aims to continue in office until August 14 to participate in the Independence Day flag-hoisting ceremony, after which the caretaker premier will be sworn in.
In accordance with the Constitution, PM Shehbaz is eligible to serve as the caretaker prime minister until the appointment of the interim leadership. Article 94 of the Constitution states, “The president may ask the prime minister to continue to hold office until his successor enters upon the office of prime minister.”
The delay in selecting the head of the interim setup is reportedly attributed to PML-N’s desire to have its own representative assume the role. Sources suggest that PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif and PPP leader Asif Ali Zardari are collaborating on the issue of appointing the caretaker PM, in consultation with a “third party.”
