Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar acknowledged during the inaugural meeting of the new interim cabinet that the temporary administration lacks a “perpetual mandate” to serve the nation, yet he is committed to serving. Kakar’s interim cabinet, consisting of 24 members from diverse backgrounds, including politicians, TV personalities, retired officials, and servicemen, is primarily influenced by PML-N and PPP nominees. Kakar highlighted the team’s competence and expressed his pride in assembling “one of the best teams”.
Initiatives and National Vision
PM Kakar emphasized the caretaker administration’s role in ensuring the continuity of previous governmental commitments nationally and internationally. He particularly spotlighted the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), referring to it as “a dream come true”. Kakar reminisced about Pakistan’s agricultural and mineral-rich identity, expressing gratitude for institutional support, especially from the Pakistan military, in realizing this vision. He stressed that while an institution might take a leading role, the country’s citizens collectively own the dream.
Commitment to Order and Protection of Minorities
Amidst societal polarization, Kakar vowed to distinguish between politics and the rule of law. He emphasized the sanctity of maintaining order, which he believes is essential for the rule of law in any governance system. Reflecting on the words of Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, Kakar called for a shared vision, the “Pakistani dream”, devoid of extremities, whether in the guise of religion or secularism. Kakar assured the protection of minorities, asserting that the state and society would sternly counter any attempts to harm them.
Reflection on May 9 Incident
Addressing the May 9 events, Kakar conveyed his dismay, comparing an attack on a polity’s immune system to the deadly impact of AIDS on the human body. He accentuated the importance of state symbols and warned against undermining them. Kakar unequivocally stated that those who breached laws on that day would face legal repercussions, emphasizing the implementation of justice and neutrality.
