On Thursday, the PPP nominated Yusuf Raza Gilani, a former prime minister, as Senate chairman.
Jamil Soomro, political secretary to Bilawal Bhutto Zardari of the PPP, issued the announcement.
An agreement between the PPP and PML-N allocated key positions between them, with the PPP receiving the roles of president, Senate chairman, and governorships of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The PML-N was allocated the deputy chairmanship of the Senate, the speakership of the National Assembly, and governorships of Sindh and Balochistan.
Gilani enjoys support from a diverse group of senators, totalling 54, indicating a strong position for the election. Should he secure backing from additional MQM-P and JUI-F senators, his total would rise to 62, enhancing his election prospects. Conversely, the PTI’s support base in the Senate consists of 22 members.
The postponement of Senate elections in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has left 11 seats vacant.
Gilani’s election as Senate chairman would mark a historic accomplishment, adding to his previous roles as National Assembly speaker and prime minister.
The Senate is slated for its inaugural session on April 9, where new members will take their oath.
With Ishaq Dar appointed as the presiding officer amidst vacancies, the session is being organized following the completion of terms by Sadiq Sanjrani and Mirza Muhammad Afridi. This session will proceed without the election results from one assembly, resulting in a Senate with 96 instead of 107 members.
Experts note no legal obstacles to electing Senate leadership post-oath-taking, despite the unusual circumstance of proceeding without full membership.
