Amid the Pakistan Election Commission’s move to remove former Prime Minister Imran Khan from the post of PTI chairman after his disqualification in the Toshakhana case, those in the corridors of powers are also busy brainstorming about holding general elections and electing a new government to end the ongoing political stalemate in the country. However, the centre point of the discussion is – who will be the interim Prime Minister of Pakistan – a person acceptable to all, including the all-powerful military – before general elections are held later this year?
It is in this context that the name of Mohsin Beg, once a close ally of PTI chief and former PM of Pakistan Imran Khan, is doing the rounds. According to India Narrative, Mohsin Baig – a well-known but controversial journalist, could be the new caretaker Prime Minister of Pakistan, considering his proximity with the Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir.
However, Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers are concerned after rumors started circulating that Mohsin Baig could well be appointed the caretaker prime minister after the government completes its tenure.
The PTI workers are extremely worried at the moment that the ongoing crackdown against them would intensify if Baig is chosen as the interim prime minister. It may be noted that Mohsin Baig was arrested after his rift with Imran Khan widened during the last days of his government.
Mohsin Baig is the editor of Online News agency, which provides services to all leading newspapers in Pakistan. Baig was once a close friend and confidante of Prime Minister Imran Khan over the past few years. Baig used to travel on the same plane as Imran Khan due to his association with the then-Pakistan premier.
Mohsin Baig recently made explosive allegations against Imran Khan in an interview and dismissed his rhetoric of Riyasat-e-Madina. Baig also revealed that for eight years, the rent for Khan`s residence was paid for by none other than the American Consulate. According to sources, Baig is known for his connections within the Pakistani establishment and it won’t be easy for the government to keep him behind bars.
Several heavyweights have left PTI to join IPP including Fawad Chaudhry, former governor Sindh Imran Ismail, and Amir Kiani among others. As Pakistan sinks deeper into an economic morass, politicians have started focusing on the ex-pats as the possible silver bullet to bail out the beleaguered South Asian nation`s economy.
(With inputs from agencies)
