New Cabinet
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has meticulously crafted his new cabinet, bringing back several familiar faces to key positions, according to sources on Sunday. The cabinet, anticipated to consist of 12 to 14 members, will encompass both ministers and advisors, with a strategic blend of experienced figures.
In a significant move, Muhammad Aurangzeb is slated to serve as the advisor on finance, while the former caretaker Finance Minister, Shamshad Akhtar, is set to make a return as a special assistant, adding depth to the economic leadership.
Despite facing a setback in the race for the finance minister position, Ishaq Dar is expected to assume the role of heading the foreign affairs ministry. Meanwhile, Jalil Abbas Jilani is designated to work as an advisor on foreign affairs, reflecting a nuanced approach to diplomatic relations.
Other key appointments include Atta Tarar as the minister for information, Khawaja Asif as the minister for defense, and Ahsan Iqbal as the minister for planning, ensuring a blend of skills across various portfolios. Notably, Mohsin Naqvi is likely to become the advisor for interior, bringing a seasoned perspective to matters of domestic security.
Surprisingly, Fawad Hassan Fawad, Umar Saif, and Ahad Cheema, who served in the caretaker cabinet, are set to join the new cabinet, showcasing continuity in governance. Additionally, prominent PMLN members like Saad Rafique, Pervaiz Malik, Khurram Dastgir, and Amir Muqam are expected to play crucial roles in the new administration.
The Muttahid Qaumi Movement is also set to have a presence in the cabinet, with two ministries likely to be allocated to Farooq Sattar and Mustafa Kamal, emphasizing a collaborative approach to governance.
The official swearing-in ceremony of the cabinet is scheduled for Monday, following Asif Zardari’s inauguration as president, marking a new chapter in the political landscape with a blend of experience and fresh perspectives.
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