The Islamabad Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Muhammad Anis, has taken the oath of office. The Cabinet comprises 24 members, including the Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani, who has served as a senior officer in the Foreign Service. Jilani’s career includes roles as Pakistan’s ambassador to the United States, High Commissioner to Australia, Deputy High Commissioner to India, Ambassador to the European Union, and the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Defense Minister Lieutenant General (Retired) Anwar Ali Haider has rendered his services in various capacities within the Pakistani military, notably as an Adjutant General in the Pakistan Army and as Chairman of the New Pakistan Housing and Development Authority.
Dr. Shamshad Akhtar, who was Minister of Finance from June 2018 to August 2018, has an impressive track record. She is the first female governor of the State Bank of Pakistan and has held roles such as Senior Adviser to the Secretary-General of the United Nations and Vice President of the World Bank. Her career also includes working as the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Senator Sarfraz Bugti, who served as the Minister of Interior and Tribal Affairs for Balochistan from 2013 to 2018, has been a member of the Senate since March 2018.
Minister of Information Murtaza Solangi is an experienced senior journalist and broadcaster. He was affiliated with Voice of America and also served as Director General of the Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation during the PPP government from 2008 to 2013.
Minister of Religious Affairs Aniq Ahmed is a well-known author, journalist, and columnist. He has hosted religious programs on a private television channel, gaining popularity for his morning shows.
Minister of Education Mudassir Ali Sindhi is a renowned writer, journalist, and columnist. He has received the President’s Performance Award and has served on the board of the Sindhi Language Authority. He is also associated with academia and has made significant contributions to education.
Health Minister Dr. Nadim Jan, who has a distinguished 24-year career, has worked with international organizations including the United Nations, USAID, World Bank, European Union, DFID, and national governments. He has played a pivotal role in managing complex situations in countries like Somalia, South Sudan, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Kenya, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, particularly in the context of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA).
Dr. Nadim’s career highlights include his instrumental role in Pakistan’s polio eradication program from 1996 to 2000, contributing to its development and implementation.
The diverse background and extensive experience of the Cabinet members reflect a range of expertise that will likely contribute to addressing various challenges and advancing Pakistan’s interests on both national and international fronts.
