Hafeez Shaikh’s name floated for Interim PM

Interior Minister and PML-N Punjab President Rana Sanaullah stated on Tuesday that all members of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) would independently participate in the upcoming general elections without forming electoral alliances with other parties.

During an informal conversation with journalists in Islamabad, the minister confidently predicted that PML-N would secure approximately 100 seats in the National Assembly and 200 provincial seats from Punjab in the upcoming elections.

Sanaullah mentioned that the general elections would be held on schedule, and the government was working towards appointing an economist as the caretaker prime minister. However, he dismissed the possibility of Finance Minister Ishaq Dar being considered for this position.

Instead, he revealed that consultations were underway to consider various candidates, including former financial expert Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh.

When asked about the potential disqualification or punishment of PTI chairman and former prime minister Imran Khan, Sanaullah commented that it was premature to speculate on the matter.

He added that it was uncertain whether any action against Imran would occur before or after the general elections. The minister emphasized that PTI leaders and activists not involved in the May 9 violence should be treated fairly.

Regarding internal party dynamics, Sanaullah clarified that Chaudhry Nisar was no longer affiliated with PML-N.

However, he acknowledged that Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and Miftah Ismail were still party leaders, highlighting that differences within the party were part of the democratic process.

The minister disclosed that the return of party supremo Nawaz Sharif to Pakistan would be announced.

Although no specific date was set, Sanaullah confirmed that when Nawaz did return, he would personally inform him first.

As PML-N Punjab president, Sanaullah would be responsible for making the necessary arrangements for Nawaz's arrival. He expressed confidence that Nawaz would return before the general elections to lead the party's campaign.

Sanaullah revealed that the government was hesitant to arrest Sheikh Rashid, leader of the Awami Muslim League (AML) and a close aide of Imran Khan, as it would unnecessarily elevate his importance.

Addressing the need for a consensus, the minister emphasized that all stakeholders should agree on conducting the census again.

He claimed that the soil of Afghanistan was being exploited for carrying out terrorist activities in Pakistan, questioning whether the Taliban government in Afghanistan was intentionally neglecting to stop these activities or simply lacked the capacity to do so.

Responding to allegations against judges, Sanaullah drew a parallel between Supreme Court, high court judges, and an additional sessions judge, stating that the judiciary would ultimately decide on the matter.

Regarding financial matters, the minister mentioned that the government would approach the top court to recover 190 million pounds. However, he expressed skepticism about the approval of the government's appeal given the current circumstances.

When asked about the whereabouts of TV host Imran Riaz Khan, Sanaullah stated that he had no information and believed that only the Almighty knew about his whereabouts.

He further mentioned that the TV host's family had not yet contacted the government for assistance, but if they did, the government would be ready to help.