PML-N, PPP Finalise Five Candidates for Caretaker PM
Defence minister says elections should take place prior to 90 days
LAHORE MIRROR — Defence Minister Khawaja Asif disclosed that Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) have jointly selected a pool of potential candidates for the crucial role of caretaker prime minister.
He clarified that he was not considered for the position and emphasised that the final decision would be made by the leadership of allied parties.
Khawaja Asif expressed his personal view that elections should be held within 90 days, and he anticipated the dissolution of assemblies two days before their tenure ends to avoid complications. He dismissed rumors suggesting Finance Minister Ishaq Dar as a contender and stated that Dar had not expressed any interest in the position either.
In the process of selecting the caretaker prime minister, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to consult with JUI-F chief Fazlur Rehman before making a final decision. The shortlisting of candidates will be carried out by Shehbaz Sharif and Leader of Opposition Raja Riaz Ahmad, as per the constitutional requirements.
Opposition Leader Raja Riaz Ahmad, who previously opposed Ishaq Dar’s nomination, now supports the idea of Dar being the caretaker prime minister. If Dar accepts the role, he is expected to relinquish his party offices and Senate seat. Discussions are ongoing about whether a caretaker can retain membership in the upper House of Parliament.
The final decision regarding the caretaker prime minister will be made by the leadership of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) alliance, considering the recommendations of member parties. PM Shehbaz Sharif is expected to announce the chosen candidate after consulting with Fazlur Rehman in the coming days.
