Federal Cabinet Reshuffle Under Consideration
Key ministries including finance, interior, maritime affairs, and defence may undergo changes as the government explores options to streamline its administrative structure. Informed sources say consultations are underway among top leadership of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) regarding a possible reallocation of ministerial portfolios and reduction in the size of the federal cabinet.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar is being considered for finance minister, while retaining his current position as deputy prime minister. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi is also a strong contender for the foreign affairs portfolio. Names Rana Sanaullah and Azam Nazeer Tarar are reportedly being discussed for interior ministry, though no final decision has been made.
Efforts to reduce cabinet size include reviewing proposals to merge or abolish certain ministries and divisions. The government aims to limit total number of ministries and divisions to 32. Among the proposals is merger of Ministry of Maritime Affairs with Ministry of Defence to improve administrative efficiency and reduce overlap. Some ministers of state serving in less significant portfolios could be relieved as part of broader restructuring plan aimed at shrinking cabinet. Consultation process ongoing, final decisions expected after high-level discussions completed.