ISLAMABAD: Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) Senator Anwaarul Haq Kakar has been appointed as the interim prime minister of Pakistan, in a unanimous decision reached by outgoing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and outgoing Opposition Leader in the National Assembly (NA) Raja Riaz. Kakar’s role will be to ensure the smooth functioning of the country until a new government is elected.
The much-anticipated announcement came after a productive meeting in Islamabad between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Raja Riaz. The two leaders jointly recommended Anwaarul Haq Kakar for the coveted post of caretaker prime minister. The prime minister and the leader of the opposition jointly signed the advice for the appointment of the caretaker PM and sent it to the President of Pakistan, it was added.
On the occasion, the prime minister thanked the leader of the opposition for his role in the parliament during the last 16 months and the cooperation extended in the consultation process.
Their advice was promptly accepted by President Arif Alvi, who granted his approval in accordance with Article 224-A of the Constitution.
صدر مملکت ڈاکٹر عارف علوی نے انوار الحق کاکڑ کی بطور نگران وزیراعظم تعیناتی کی منظوری دے دی
صدر مملکت نے تعیناتی کی منظوری آئین کے آرٹیکل 224 ایک اے کے تحت کی pic.twitter.com/U8mGQXLZva
— The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) August 12, 2023
Anwaarul Haq Kakar’s appointment is seen as a significant step toward maintaining stability and order during the transition period leading up to the elections. The selection of Kakar, who hails from Balochistan and possesses a reputation as a non-controversial figure, underscores the emphasis on representing smaller provinces and addressing the concerns of marginalized regions.
Raja Riaz affirmed the decision to the media, expressing the need for a caretaker prime minister from a smaller province who could contribute to diminishing the sense of deprivation in such areas. He further emphasized that Kakar’s appointment was made with the shared goal of promoting unity and effective governance.
Anwaarul Haq Kakar Brings a Wealth of Experience to New Role
Anwaarul Haq Kakar, an independent senator from Balochistan, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role. He previously served as chairperson of the Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, demonstrating his commitment to vital issues. Additionally, Kakar served as the spokesperson for the Balochistan government and contributed to the province’s political landscape.
Kakar’s linguistic proficiency, encompassing languages such as English, Urdu, Persian, Pushto, Balochi, and Brahvi, highlights his ability to connect with diverse segments of the population.
The announcement of Kakar’s appointment has elicited mixed reactions from political figures. Fawad Chaudhry, former information minister and ex-PTI leader, praised Kakar as an “honest, educated, and modest” individual, expressing hope for positive outcomes under his leadership.
سینیٹر انوار کاکڑ ۔۔۔ وزیر اعظم۔۔۔۔ ایک سچا پاکستانی، انتہائ پڑھا لکھا معتدل مزاج شخص۔۔۔طویل عرصے بعد پاکستان کیلئے کوئ اچھی خبر آئ ہے، خدا آپ کا حامی و ناصر ہو اور اللہ پاکستان کیلئے اس فیصلے کو مبارک کرے
— Ch Fawad Hussain (@fawadchaudhry) August 12, 2023
Other political figures welcomed the choice, while some voiced differing opinions, underscoring the ongoing complexities and debates surrounding leadership transitions.
https://twitter.com/fkkundi/status/1690320436620386305
My personal views on Senator Kakar as PM: an intelligent articulate reasonable man having worked with him as Pres SupremeCourt bar and in senate: believes In Politics of cooperation not confrontation: has always well represented the interests of Balauchistan. Wish him the best
— Barrister Syed Ali Zafar (@SyedAliZafar1) August 12, 2023
Anwaarul Haq Kakar was elected as an independent senator from Balochistan province for a tenure of March 2018 to March 2024 in the general seat.
He was also working as chairperson Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development and as a member of the Business Advisory Committee, Finance and Revenue, Foreign Affairs and Science and Technology.
Kakar had co-launched a political party Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) and also served as spokesman for the government of Balochistan.
The consultation process for the nomination of the caretaker prime minister commenced after the president approved the dissolution of the National Assembly (NA) on August 9, on the advice of the prime minister.
Anwaarul Haq Kakar’s new role comes as Pakistan navigates a critical phase in its democratic process, aiming to ensure a smooth transition of power and the facilitation of transparent and fair elections. His appointment is met with anticipation as the nation seeks to uphold stability, inclusivity, and democratic principles during this crucial period.
