ISLAMABAD – Top political candidates are meeting in a bid to bridge differences over forming coalition government after an inconclusive general election, and people are curious for the names of officeholders.
As talks between Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz and Pakistan Peoples Party are underway, the appointment of a finance minister will be crucial amid soaring economic challenges. Nawaz’s aides and PPP stalwarts hold multiple rounds of talks without reaching a strong agreement, and they are scheduled to meet again in the coming days.
The role of upcoming finance czar will have to deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for fresh talks as the country faces an economic meltdown.
Ishaq Dar
Pakistan’s four-time finance chief and close aide of PML-N supremo, Ishaq Dar remains top candidate for the role of next finance minister. If PML-N managed to form government in the Center, then Ishaq Dar will be the top candidate for the job.
Sultan Ali Allana
A top Pakistani banker who serves as Chairman of Habib Bank and director of Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development is also being considered for the job. Sultan’s name was previously under consideration for the role of caretaker finance minister twice, in 2018 and 2023 but he could not make it to the office.
The seasoned financial expert holds decades of experience in banking, with a background in retail, corporate, and investment banking. Alumni of McGill University and the University of Wisconsin, respectively, he earned undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Engineering and Management.
Muhammad Aurangzeb
Another banker Muhammad Aurangzeb is being considered for the role. Aurangzeb is President & CEO of HBL. Previously, he was the boss of JP Morgan’s Global Corporate Bank based in Asia, with a rich international banking experience.
The banker is only Pakistani citizen to be invited to exclusive membership of Global CEO Council. A senior official of Chairman of the Pakistan Banks Association, Director of the Pakistan Business Council, and Council Member at the Institute of Bankers Pakistan, Aurangzeb got his MBA from Wharton School (University of Pennsylvania).
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