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ISLAMABAD: In a highly anticipated development, the federal cabinet, headed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, is set to take oath today at 3 pm. The ceremony, to be held at the President’s House, will be administered by the newly elected President, Asif Ali Zardari.
After meticulous deliberations, the Prime Minister has finalized a list of 12 to 14 cabinet members, a mix of ministers and advisors, including some familiar faces returning to prominent roles.
Among the key appointments, Muhammad Aurangzeb is slated to serve as the Advisor on Finance, while former Finance Minister Shamshad Akhtar makes a return as the Special Assistant. Ishaq Dar, who had previously contended for the finance minister role, is expected to head the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Jalil Abbas Jilani is set to work as the Advisor on Foreign Affairs.
Other notable appointments include Atta Tarar as Minister for Information, Khawaja Asif as Minister for Defence, and Ahsan Iqbal as Minister for Planning. Mohsin Naqvi is likely to be appointed as the Advisor for Interior.
In a surprising move, individuals such as Fawad Hassan Fawad, Umar Saif, and Ahad Cheema, who served in the caretaker cabinet, are also expected to join the new cabinet.
From the PML-N, Saad Rafique, Pervaiz Malik, Khurram Dastgir, and Amir Muqam are set to be part of the cabinet, reflecting a diverse inclusion of experienced politicians.
The Muttahida Qaumi Movement is also expected to receive two ministries, with Farooq Sattar and Mustafa Kamal likely to be the designated ministers.