Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has selected a streamlined cabinet for Monday’s swearing-in, focusing on his 100-day agenda. It was learned from senior PML-N figures that the cabinet’s composition and assignments will be disclosed then. They noted that the cabinet’s reduction aims to enhance efficiency and better manage crises.
Critics had previously labelled Shehbaz’s larger cabinet as economically burdensome. In response, the initial cabinet appointments will target a handful of skilled individuals for critical sectors, as PML-N insiders shared. Further appointments could include MQM-P, PMLQ, and IPP members, despite the PPP’s refusal to participate and a renewed invitation from PM Shehbaz.
The primary goal for the upcoming 100 days involves tackling economic issues, boosting investment, controlling inflation, and ensuring time is well spent, with focuses on governance, economic growth, national security, agriculture, and climate change, along with commitments to education, healthcare, employment, and party pledges.
Talks hint at potential privatizations and a need for renegotiating IMF terms. The initial cabinet will likely have over a dozen ministers covering key areas, possibly including notable figures like Ishaq Dar and Khawaja Asif. President Asif Ali Zardari will officiate the oath. Following their past leadership roles, this marks a collaborative effort by PM Shehbaz and President Zardari for government stability.
