Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has extended an invitation to the coalition parties in his government to discuss the possibility of seat adjustments for the upcoming general elections. He made this announcement during a dinner event hosted for leaders of allied parties. The purpose of the dinner was to brief the coalition partners about the appointment of a caretaker prime minister.
Addressing the attendees, PM Shehbaz expressed his support for seat adjustments among the coalition partners, acknowledging that each party has its own manifesto and candidates to campaign for. He stressed the importance of working together in view of the challenges facing the country.
While he encouraged seat adjustments, PM Shehbaz also emphasized that the consultation process for seat adjustments would continue. He mentioned his intention to invite the leader of the opposition in the National Assembly, Raja Riaz, to finalize the name of the caretaker prime minister.
PM Shehbaz explained that the process of finalizing the caretaker prime minister’s name might take up to eight days. If he and the opposition leader fail to reach a consensus, a parliamentary committee or the Election Commission may make the decision. He clarified that the President’s letter urging a decision by Saturday was based on misinformation, as there was still sufficient time to complete the process.
Acknowledging the economic challenges faced by the government, PM Shehbaz mentioned that the imposition of levies on petroleum products was due to conditions set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which placed a financial burden on the people. He attributed inflation to global commodity prices and the conflict in Ukraine.
PM Shehbaz highlighted the government’s achievements, including record wheat production and stabilizing economic and political conditions. He mentioned an agreement with the IMF that prevented economic collapse and default.
The PM also addressed the controversy surrounding the incident of May 9, which he described as creating chaos and uncertainty in the country. He criticized Imran Khan, the chief of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, for his actions and lies, accusing Khan of damaging Pakistan’s integrity and poisoning the minds of youth.
Regarding the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), PM Shehbaz expressed optimism that it would attract investment and contribute to the country’s progress and prosperity.
As for the upcoming caretaker prime minister, speculations are ongoing about whether the position will be held by a bureaucrat or a politician. Names like Ishaq Dar, Hafeez Sheikh, Justice Shakeel Baloch, and Jalil Abbas Jilani have surfaced for consideration. The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has suggested Jalil Abbas Jilani’s name for the position, and PM Shehbaz indicated that he had no objection to this suggestion.