The top brass of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has been engaging in extensive discussions in Dubai to establish a temporary government set-up for Pakistan.
The primary point of contention that has prevented a consensus so far is the choice for the interim Prime Minister.
Although numerous potential candidates, including an apolitical individual from south Punjab, have been considered, no definitive decision has been made. These discussions will likely require additional negotiations before a conclusion can be reached.
Choosing a Neutral Interim Prime Minister to Lead Pakistan
On Monday night, a significant meeting was held in a Dubai hotel involving former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and ex-President Asif Ali Zardari. The leaders emphasized that the interim Prime Minister should be a neutral, non-controversial figure, instrumental in ensuring the general acceptance of the election results.
Economic competence was also a priority during these discussions, with a strong call for an “able and influential economist” to lead economic improvement efforts in the upcoming months. Both leaders concurred that the prevailing economic downturn might negatively affect the vote bank of political parties.
Insiders reported that the final decision regarding the caretaker Prime Minister would be made after consulting with Maulana Fazlur Rehman, President of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM).
Discussions also revolved around the necessity of an economic emergency, with differing viewpoints between Sharif and Zardari on when to implement economic recovery measures. Election postponement was also discussed, but both leaders supported holding the elections to maintain political stability and enhance the economy.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, also a part of the ongoing deliberations, has been in touch with Nawaz and Fazl on potential candidates for the caretaker Prime Minister role.
