ISLAMABAD: Prime Minster Raja Pervez Ashraf on Wednesday kick-started consultation process for the appointment of caretaker prime minister ahead of the coming general election.
A letter sent by Leader of the House to the Leader of the Opposition in National Assembly requests Ch Nisar to propose names for appointment as head of the interim government ‘at the earliest’. The letter reads that consultation is mandatory under Article 224 of the constitution to reach a consensus on the appointment of caretaker prime minister, who could uphold the national interest and ensure free, fair and transparent elections in the country.
Following is the text of the letter.
“My Dear!
As you know, the National Assembly will be achieving the milestone of completing its tenure by the middle of next month. It will be a historic achievement signifying the maturity and sagacity of the political parties in the country. This singular achievement will go a long way in strengthening democracy and establishing supremacy of the will of the people of Pakistan.
All political parties, within and outside the parliament and national institutions deserve special compliment and praise for their continued support to the democratic process during the last five years. The country is now poised for general election with the likely dissolution of the National Assembly on the expiry of its term.
It is imperative that we initiate the process under Article 224 of the constitution to arrive at a consensus on the appointment of caretaker prime minister, who could uphold the national interest and ensure free, fair and transparent elections in the country.
The people of Pakistan rightly expect us to rise to the occasion and agree upon the most suitable person as caretaker prime minster and pave the way for holding general elections in an impartial, fair and transparent manner. Let us enable the people of Pakistan to express their will in an exemplary environment and ensure smooth transition of power to the next elected government.
I would request you as Leader of the Opposition to propose names of persons who in your opinion are eminently qualified to be appointed as caretaker prime minister of Pakistan.
I would be grateful if you could forward your nominations at the earliest so that we may arrive at a consensus on the caretaker prime minister, prior to the dissolution of the National Assembly on the expiry of its term, otherwise we will be constrained to proceed further in the matter as per Article 224 (A) of the constitution.
Sincerely,
Raja Pervez Ashraf
Interestingly, the letter does not bear two names to be proposed by the prime minister for the slot. The PML-N may request the prime minister to unveil names proposed by him so that consultation process could start. – DailyTimes
