Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Pakistan's former foreign minister, is poised to make a return to government, potentially as part of a power-sharing arrangement between his Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N).
According to reports, Bilawal is likely to rejoin the cabinet as the foreign minister under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Although initially hesitant, Bilawal has reportedly agreed to take on the role once again, following recent discussions between the two parties.
The timing of the PPP's formal entry into the cabinet is still under consideration, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif aiming for the party to join before the upcoming budget presentation in June. It remains unclear whether this will happen before or after the budget, but sources suggest that the PPP's inclusion in the cabinet is imminent.
To accommodate Bilawal's appointment as foreign minister, the incumbent, Ishaq Dar, is expected to transition to the role of deputy prime minister. This move would allow Dar to oversee economic policies while making room for Bilawal in the Foreign Office.
Bilawal's previous tenure as foreign minister during the PDM government is seen positively within the PPP, with many believing that his return to the Foreign Office would benefit both him and the party. The final decision regarding the PPP's participation in the cabinet will be made by its Central Executive Committee.
The potential collaboration between the PPP and PML-N follows the latter's fulfillment of commitments to the PPP, including appointments in provincial governorships and other constitutional positions. In return, the PPP is expected to reciprocate by joining the cabinet.
Sources within the Foreign Office have expressed confidence in Bilawal's capabilities, citing his successful tenure as foreign minister before the elections. Overall, Bilawal's return to the government could mark a significant development in Pakistan's political landscape, signaling a potential realignment of power dynamics.
