NA dissolution sets stage for fresh general elections

ISLAMABAD: As the President, Dr Arif Alvi, on Wednesday signed the summary for dissolution of the National Assembly, the stage is set for a riveting political showdown in the country.

The president dissolved the National Assembly on the advice of the Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, in terms of Article 58 (1) of the Constitution of Pakistan, 1973. President Alvi dissolved the lower house of the Parliament, three days ahead of the completion of its five-year tenure.

President Arif Alvi has dissolved the National Assembly under Article 58(1) on the advice of the prime minister,” read a statement issued by the Presidency.

As the Pakistan Democratic Movement’s government led by the Pakistan Muslim League (N) has exited the power corridors, all eyes are set on the meeting of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif with the outgoing Opposition Leader in the National Assembly, Raja Riaz to reach a consensus on the selection of a name for the caretaker prime minister.

In this regard, the prime minister has also sent a letter to Mr Riaz formally inviting him to deliberate on the interim setup.

PM Shehbaz said in the letter that the consultation process for the appointment the caretaker prime minister has been initiated following the dissolution of NA assembly by the president under Article 224 (1) A.

However, till the appointment of the caretaker prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif will act as the caretaker prime minister. “The president may ask the prime minister to continue to hold office until his successor enters upon the office of prime minister,” according to Article 94 of the 1973 Constitution. According to sources, PM Shehbaz has concluded consultations with the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) and allied parties ahead of a crucial consultation with the opposition leader. – our reporter and news agencies