In a session marked by chaos and protest, Shehbaz Sharif of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has emerged victorious as the 24th Prime Minister of Pakistan. The National Assembly witnessed a heated atmosphere on Sunday as members of the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) created disruptions during the proceedings.
With 201 votes in his favor, Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif secured the prime ministerial position, defeating his opponent Omar Ayub who garnered 92 votes. Speaker Ayaz Sadiq made the announcement amidst protests from SIC lawmakers and subsequently invited Shehbaz to address the House from the prime minister’s seat.
The 24th Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz’s victory was anticipated given the support he received from seven other political parties, including the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P), and Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) among others.
Chaos Erupts During Session
The session commenced with the swearing-in of PML-N’s Jam Kamal, but it quickly descended into chaos with SIC members chanting slogans in support of incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan. Speaker Sadiq had to intervene, calling for a brief recess to ensure all members were present for the prime ministerial election.
After the voting process began, members of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) staged a walkout, while Balochistan National Party’s Sardar Akhtar Mengal abstained from voting.
Transition at the PM House
Meanwhile, caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar will extend the traditional welcome to Shehbaz Sharif at the Prime Minister’s House. Kakar, who held the caretaker position for a record 200 days, vacated the premises but will continue his duties until the formal notification of the new premier.
Preparations are underway at the PM House to receive the incoming leader, with arrangements for a guard of honor and a warm welcome scheduled for Monday. Clear weather is anticipated after recent rains, setting the stage for a smooth transition of power.
