Key cabinet members resign ahead of Pakistan’s general elections

ISLAMABAD: In a political twist preceding the upcoming general elections, several caretakers’ ministers have decided to step down from their current posts.

Caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti has opted to step down from his position.

Bugti, harboring aspirations to participate in the forthcoming elections, formally submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar.

The move is seen as a prelude to Bugti’s anticipated affiliation with the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).

Sources indicate that Bugti’s resignation, transmitted to the Prime Minister on December 13, was acknowledged and accepted on Friday.

It is now confirmed that the outgoing interior minister intends to vie for electoral victory from his constituency, marking a strategic shift in his political trajectory.

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Simultaneously, Balochistan’s Minister for Sports and Culture, Jamal Khan Raisani, announced his resignation from the ministry on December 12, citing aspirations to participate in the impending general elections.

Confirming the acceptance of his resignation, Raisani expressed his decision during a media interaction, signaling a departure from his ministerial duties.

Adding to the political shuffle, Adviser to Caretaker Chief Minister Balochistan on Minerals, Sardarzada Umair Muhammad Hassani, also tendered his resignation.

Sources reveal that Hassani, eyeing a political journey, aims to contest the election from Chagi.

His resignation, submitted on December 13, has also been officially accepted.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has slated February 8, 2024, as the date for the upcoming general elections, following consultations with President Arif Alvi.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, more resignations from the incumbent caretaker cabinet are anticipated, as individuals position themselves for eligibility in the crucial elections scheduled for early 2024.