Cabinet expansion: Musadik Malik faces the axe

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday expanded the federal cabinet, increasing the member from 21 to 43. The new lineup includes 31 federal ministers, nine ministers of state and four advisers.

In an interesting development, Musadik Malik, who previously held the position of minister for petroleum, is being stripped of his portfolio due to ‘poor performance’.

Though his new responsibilities are not yet known, sources say his expected removal is part of broader policy reforms aimed at improving governance and the administration’s overall performance.

Musadik Malik, who is an energy and economic affairs expert, was instrumental in solving the energy crisis of Pakistan, securing fuel agreements, and reducing petroleum prices.

His performance, however, was questioned by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and was also termed ‘unimpressive’ by the establishment.

According to sources, PM Sharif expressed dissatisfaction over Malik’s handling of the petroleum ministry.

Sources confirmed that Malik has been informed of his removal from the petroleum ministry, and a new petroleum minister is expected to be appointed in his place.

A race for the position is reportedly under way between Ali Pervez Malik and Raza Hiraj, with sources indicating that Ali Pervez Malik is the front-runner. A final decision is expected either on Saturday or Monday.

Further details on Malik’s future role are expected to be officially announced on Saturday or early next week.