The Punjab cabinet is on the brink of its first phase of expansion, expected to unfold within the next one to two days, where 15 ministers are poised to swear into office at the Governor’s House. This initial phase will introduce a streamlined cabinet structure, focusing on pivotal portfolios, marking a significant moment as the new administration’s tenure commences.
Among the anticipated appointments, Marriyum Aurangzeb is likely to lead the Ministry of Planning and Development and Forests, while Azma Bukhari is anticipated to be appointed as the Provincial Minister for Information. Khawaja Imran Nazir is set to helm the Ministry for Primary Health, with Bilal Yasin designated as the Minister for Food and Mujtaba Shuja overseeing the Excise department.
In the preliminary lineup under Maryam Nawaz’s leadership, Khalid Jaja is earmarked for the Ministry of Agriculture, while Faisal Ayub is expected to take on the responsibilities of the Ministry of Housing and Sports. Additionally, Salman Naeem and Rana Iskandar Hayat are projected to join the 15-member cabinet.
The potential inclusion of Rana Sanaullah in the Punjab cabinet or a federal ministerial role is currently under review. Moreover, Parvez Rasheed is speculated to secure a ministerial position in Maryam Nawaz’s cabinet, while Shafay Hussain, son of Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain, is also anticipated to be granted a ministry, reflecting the ongoing deliberations and decision-making processes within the provincial government’s formation.