PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has confirmed his intention to run in the Senate elections from Punjab next month.
Naqvi emphasized his aim to serve as a “candidate of all,” yet remains undecided about his political affiliation. Amid speculations of his involvement in the Ministry of Interior, Naqvi disclosed that no definitive decisions have been reached, despite discussions following meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President-elect Asif Ali Zardari.
Naqvi’s Senate campaign faces strong criticism from PTI, with senior leader Asad Qasier expressing outright dismissal of any “reconciliation” should Naqvi join the interior ministry, as reported on Geo News’ “Naya Pakistan.” Initially, rumours suggested Naqvi’s consideration for the role of adviser to the prime minister on interior affairs, with Rana Mehmoodul Hassan proposed as the Senate candidate from Punjab.
Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain of PML-Q, a crucial ally in the coalition, allegedly insisted on Naqvi’s unchallenged senatorial election as a condition for the coalition leadership.
Naqvi leads the PCB, having succeeded Zaka Ashraf last month without opposition. However, his PCB chairmanship faces legal scrutiny, with the Islamabad High Court (IHC) reserving its judgment on a challenge against his appointment based on the caretaker prime minister’s authority to nominate the PCB head.
