Ishaq Dar’s elevation to the role of deputy prime minister has significantly amplified his influence within the current administration. Virtually sharing power with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Dar’s close ties to the Sharif family and his stature as Nawaz Sharif’s confidant have made his ascent unsurprising.
Despite initial setbacks when he was removed as economic czar, Dar’s comeback has been remarkable, now occupying the second most important position in the cabinet.
It’s evident that Dar’s appointment stems from Nawaz Sharif’s efforts to reaffirm control over the party, with speculation rife about Sharif’s eventual return to the presidency of the PML-N. Dar, acting as a proxy for his former boss, is likely to take cues from Raiwind, further accentuating the power dynamics within the ruling party.
However, this development underscores the underlying divisions within the PML-N. While the rationale behind creating the new post remains unclear, it poses challenges for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, especially as he leads a fragile coalition government under a hybrid arrangement. The impending changes in the party’s hierarchy and the resulting dichotomy could erode his authority.
In his new capacity, Dar will not only continue to shape the country’s foreign policy but will also wield significant influence over economic and financial matters, possibly resuming his role as a de facto economic czar. This raises concerns about the sustainability of the current government’s financial reform agenda and its negotiations with the IMF, given Dar’s track record of implementing policies that contributed to economic instability.
Despite Dar’s appointment not drawing criticism from coalition partners, it’s worth noting that allied parties had reportedly opposed his return as finance minister. While the position of deputy prime minister may lack constitutional backing, its significance in the current political landscape cannot be understated.
The timing and circumstances surrounding Dar’s appointment raise questions about its necessity and potential implications. While it’s unclear whether the establishment was involved, it’s unlikely to alter the existing power dynamics, with the rift within the PML-N potentially tilting the balance towards external influences.
Dar’s elevation to deputy prime minister aligns with his long-standing ambition for the top position, as evidenced by past interactions with military officials as he requested the then army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa to appoint him as prime minister after the ouster of Nawaz Sharif following a Supreme Court decision.
His newfound role, coupled with additional responsibilities such as foreign minister and heading government committees, further complicates an already convoluted governance structure.
The focus must remain on addressing the nation’s myriad challenges rather than internal power struggles. Dar’s appointment underscores the consolidation of power within the Sharif family, both at the federal and provincial levels.
As speculation mounts about Nawaz Sharif’s return as party president and the potential for a reshuffle in leadership positions, the future trajectory of the ruling party remains uncertain. While Nawaz Sharif’s resurgence could signal a shift in power dynamics, the volatile nature of Pakistani politics leaves room for unpredictability.
Muhammad Sohail Bhatti
Senior journalist and Editor of daily China Urdu in Islamabad.