Islamabad, January 7, 2025: The government has decided to induct Dr. Tauqir Shah into the federal cabinet following concerns expressed by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and bureaucrats regarding Ahad Cheema. Senior journalist Khawaja Kashif Rafiq disclosed that the ongoing tensions between the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and PPP are not merely about the distribution of funds but are rooted in bureaucratic influence and control.
Speaking on a private television channel, Kashif Rafiq revealed that PPP seeks greater space and key positions for its preferred bureaucrats, while Ahad Cheema, who is considered close to the prime minister, has been undertaking significant reshuffles in the bureaucracy. Several senior bureaucrats have reportedly complained about being made subordinate to a junior officer, which they say has made their jobs difficult. Former President Asif Ali Zardari also raised concerns about Ahad Cheema during his recent meeting with the prime minister, who himself expressed dissatisfaction with Cheema’s conduct.
According to Kashif Rafiq, promotions within the bureaucracy have become contentious. Due to the absence of High-Power Board and Central Selection Board meetings, many officers’ promotions have been delayed. Additionally, in the last board meeting, at least eight officers recommended by PPP were not promoted, prompting further discontent from the party.
In light of these differences, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has decided to appoint Dr. Tauqir Shah as an advisor to bring stability to the bureaucracy. Dr. Shah previously served in the Prime Minister’s Office during the caretaker government and is likely to be given charge of the Establishment Division.
Kashif Rafiq further mentioned that since Dr. Tauqir Shah is senior to Ahad Cheema, he might appoint his close associate Kazim Niaz as Secretary Establishment. Additionally, there is a possibility that Asad Gilani’s tenure as Principal Secretary may end, with Dr. Shah assuming that role himself. If the current Secretary Finance goes abroad, Kamran Afzal may be appointed as the new Secretary Finance. All these changes are expected to take effect once Dr. Tauqir Shah resigns from his current position at the World Bank.
