According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office released on Saturday, Senator Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, a member of the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP), has been chosen as the interim prime minister (PM).
This decision follows a series of discussions between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Opposition Leader in outgoing National Assembly Raja Riaz. President Arif Alvi has approved the decision under Article 224 1A of the constitution.
Following the meeting, Raja Riaz addressed the media, stating that they had agreed on an interim prime minister from a smaller province. The primary objective was to select an individual who hails from a smaller province and is uncontroversial. This move aims to address the feelings of neglect experienced by smaller provinces.
Raja Riaz mentioned that he had proposed Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar’s name, which received approval. Responding to queries, he informed that the swearing-in ceremony for the caretaker prime minister is expected to take place on Sunday.
As for the caretaker cabinet, he stated that no discussions had occurred, as this decision falls within the authority of the interim prime minister. The decision follows a letter from President Dr. Arif Alvi to PM Shehbaz, reminding them to suggest a suitable candidate for the interim premier by August 12 (Saturday).
Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, the newly appointed caretaker prime minister of Pakistan, is a prominent political figure from Balochistan. He was elected to the Senate in 2018 and has been actively engaged in politics. Before his tenure in the upper house, Kakar also served as the spokesperson for the provincial government.
This selection of Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar holds significance as it aligns with the PML-N and PPP’s perspective that a politician should assume the role. Commenting on this development, anchorperson Shahzeb Khanzada highlighted the expectations of both parties regarding the appointment of a political figure to this important position.
