LAHORE: In a recent development, Ishaq Dar has been appointed as the Deputy Prime Minister of Pakistan, a move that has intensified his presence and power within the current government, according to senior analyst and journalist Zahid Hussain.
“Ishaq Dar’s ascent to the role of Deputy Prime Minister solidifies his position as a key figure in the Sharif family’s political circle,” Hussain commented. He noted that Dar, who is also a close confidant of Nawaz Sharif, appears to be acting as a proxy for the former prime minister, following directives straight from Raiwind.
The appointment, which occurred while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was abroad in Saudi Arabia, has been perceived as a strategic decision by Nawaz Sharif to reassert control over the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), with expectations that he will soon resume leadership of the party.
“This marks a significant moment where the fissures within the PML-N might become more apparent,” Hussain observed. “There’s a real concern about how this shift could potentially destabilise the already shaky coalition government led by Shehbaz Sharif.”
Hussain also expressed concerns over Dar’s historical role as finance minister, noting his policies often led to detrimental effects on the country’s economy. “The reappointment of Dar in such a powerful position raises several questions about the future of Pakistan’s financial reforms and its dealings with international bodies like the IMF,” he said.
Despite the lack of constitutional provision for a Deputy Prime Minister, such appointments have been made in the past, though they typically carried little actual power. However, Hussain argues that Dar’s new role is far from ceremonial. “It’s clear that this appointment is meant to consolidate power rather than delegate it, which could lead to further political instability,” he explained.
Reflecting on Dar’s ambitions, Hussain recalled a conversation with former army chief Gen Qamar Bajwa, where Dar expressed his aspirations for higher political office. “This is a testament to Dar’s longstanding ambition to rise to the top echelon of Pakistan’s political hierarchy,” said Hussain.
In conclusion, Hussain highlighted the broader implications of this power shift within the PML-N and the potential impact on the country’s governance. “The ongoing power struggles and the centralization of authority within the Sharif family are likely to challenge the government’s ability to address the pressing issues facing Pakistan,” he warned.
As the PML-N prepares for its general council meeting, where Nawaz Sharif is expected to be reinstated as party president, the political dynamics in Pakistan continue to evolve, with significant consequences for its future stability and governance.
