Islamabad:
Anwarul Haq Kakar was on Monday sworn in as Pakistan’s caretaker prime minister to head a neutral political set-up to run the cash-strapped country and conduct the next general elections.
Mr. Kakar, the 52-year-old first-time Senator, is an ethnic Pushtun from Balochistan and a member of the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) — a party considered close to the powerful establishment of the country.
He was administered the oath of office by President Arif Alvi in a ceremony held at the Aiwan-i-Sadr (the President’s House) in Islamabad. He became the 8th interim prime minister of Pakistan.
Ahead of taking the oath, Mr. Kakar resigned from the upper house of Parliament.
Mr Kakar’s name was agreed upon during the final day of consultations between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Leader of the Opposition in the dissolved National Assembly, Raja Riaz Ahmad on Saturday.
Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjarani on Monday accepted Mr. Kakar’s resignation from the Senate ahead of the latter’s swearing-in as the caretaker prime minister.
A day earlier, Mr. Kakar announced his resignation from the Senate as well as the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP), which he founded in 2018.
According to Geo News, Mr. Kakar stepped down from his post because he wanted to be an impartial interim premier.
Since it was his responsibility to hold free and fair general elections in cooperation with the Election Commission of Pakistan, he decided to resign.
A notification issued by the Senate Secretariat on Monday notified Mr Kakar’s resignation.
“Anwaarul Haq Kakar, a member Senate of Pakistan, has resigned his seat, as his principled stance of neutrality on becoming the caretaker prime minister, by writing under his hand in person before the Senate chairman,” the notification said.
“The honorable Senate chairman has been pleased to accept the resignation and consequently his seat has become vacant in terms of clause (1) of Article 64 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan with effect from August 14,” it added.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Mr. Sharif expressed confidence that Mr. Kakar would ensure fair elections. He said the “trust reposed by all parties in Kakar’s name proves their proper choice as the upcoming caretaker Prime Minister is an educated person and a patriot”.
According to Mr. Sharif, Mr. Kakar was decided upon under a constitutional process as he was the “most suitable person” to head the interim set-up.
As Pakistan stands at the precipice of another significant phase in its democratic journey, the swearing-in of Anwarul Haq Kakar as the nation’s caretaker Prime Minister marks a pivotal moment in its political landscape. With the completion of the term of the previous government, the appointment of a caretaker leader assumes paramount importance, ensuring the continuity of governance and the facilitation of transparent and credible elections.
Anwarul Haq Kakar’s assumption of the role of caretaker Prime Minister is not merely a procedural formality; it represents the embodiment of the principles of impartiality and commitment to the democratic process. His selection comes after careful consideration and consultation, underscoring the collective efforts of political stakeholders to ensure a seamless transition of power. This appointment carries the weight of responsibility in steering the ship of state through the pre-election period, safeguarding the democratic values that Pakistan holds dear.
Caretaker governments, an integral part of democratic systems, play a crucial role in maintaining stability and ensuring the fairness of the electoral process. Anwarul Haq Kakar, a respected figure with a history of public service, assumes this responsibility with the pledge to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and non-partisanship. His role encompasses the facilitation of free and fair elections, the prevention of any undue influence, and the provision of a level playing field for all political contenders.
The significance of Anwarul Haq Kakar’s appointment extends beyond the borders of Pakistan. It underscores the nation’s commitment to democratic ideals, setting an example for other countries navigating similar transitional periods. As Pakistan opens a new chapter in its political narrative, the international community observes with interest, recognizing the importance of political stability in a region of strategic importance.
The challenges that lie ahead for Anwarul Haq Kakar are not to be underestimated. Balancing the demands of a diverse and dynamic electorate, overseeing the administration during a critical juncture, and safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process require astute leadership and a deep sense of responsibility. However, his track record and reputation for integrity provide a solid foundation upon which to navigate these challenges.
One of the defining characteristics of a caretaker government is its short tenure, designed to facilitate the transition to a newly elected administration. Anwarul Haq Kakar’s tenure will be marked by a commitment to facilitating a smooth and orderly transfer of power. During this period, he will work alongside the Election Commission and relevant authorities to ensure that the electoral process proceeds without hindrance, allowing the people of Pakistan to exercise their democratic right to choose their representatives.
The appointment of Anwarul Haq Kakar as caretaker Prime Minister signifies a collective step toward strengthening democratic institutions. It reflects the maturity of Pakistan’s political system, where differing viewpoints are managed within a framework of respect and adherence to constitutional norms. His leadership holds the potential to inspire a renewed sense of civic engagement, encouraging citizens to actively participate in the democratic process.
As the nation embarks on this chapter under the guidance of Anwarul Haq Kakar, the hope is for a period of stability, transparency, and inclusivity. The caretaker Prime Minister’s role goes beyond mere administration; it embodies the essence of democratic governance, serving as a guardian of the people’s will and a custodian of the nation’s democratic legacy.
In conclusion, the swearing-in of Anwarul Haq Kakar as Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister represents a moment of significance in the country’s democratic evolution. His appointment underscores the commitment to transparent and credible elections and reflects the dedication of political stakeholders to upholding democratic principles. As Pakistan navigates the pre-election period, the nation and the world watch with anticipation, hopeful for a smooth transition and an affirmation of democratic values.
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