Senator Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar, recently appointed as Pakistan’s caretaker prime minister, is a prominent political figure hailing from Balochistan. Earning a seat in the Senate in 2018, Kakar has played an active role in the political landscape of Balochistan. Prior to his senatorial tenure, he served as the spokesperson for the provincial government.
Despite his political involvement, Kakar is widely respected as an intellectual within the country, according to senior anchorperson Hamid Mir. His affiliation with the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) aligns him with the Kakar tribe of Pashtun ethnicity, effectively representing both the Pashtuns and Balochs.
Kakar’s influence extends beyond party lines, as he maintains favorable relations with mainstream political parties like the PML-N and PPP. These connections have contributed to his selection as the 8th interim head of government. The decision emerged following consultations between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Leader of the Opposition Raja Riaz, subsequently approved by President Arif Alvi.
It’s noteworthy that the PML-N and PPP had advocated for the possibility of a politician assuming the esteemed role. This aligns with the stance of political parties under the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) alliance, emphasizing the importance of consistent economic policies during this transitional period, including the continuation of projects initiated by the outgoing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Kakar’s alignment with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) during its governance earned him praise, as he contributed insights on Balochistan matters to former Prime Minister Imran Khan. This support, however, incurred criticism from rival parties, with the PML-N questioning BAP’s ties to PTI, and later PTI voicing concerns when the party switched allegiances.
Born in 1971 in Muslim Bagh within Balochistan’s Killa Saifullah district, Kakar began his education at St. Francis School in Quetta. Although he briefly attended Cadet College Kohat, he returned to Quetta following his father’s passing. His educational journey culminated in a Master’s degree in Political Science and Sociology from the University of Balochistan.
Kakar’s early career included teaching at a local school in his hometown. He played a pivotal role in the inception of BAP, later becoming its central spokesperson in 2018. Furthermore, he serves as the chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis.
Read more: Anwar Ul Haq Kakar to be the new caretaker PM: Raja Riaz
In 2008, Senator Kakar contested the National Assembly election from Quetta on a PML-Q ticket, showcasing his enduring commitment to public service.
Senator Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar’s ascension to the role of caretaker prime minister signifies his evolution from a dedicated educator to a respected political figure. His association with various parties and his commitment to regional and national matters exemplify his role as a unifying force during Pakistan’s transitional phases.
