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Aftab Maken
The Federal Minister for Petroleum, Dr. Musadik Malik, is currently facing intense scrutiny from influential quarters in Islamabad for a variety of reasons linked to his leadership of the ministry. The recent transfer of an additional secretary from the ministry has further escalated the situation, turning an already challenging environment into a full-blown crisis.
The prevailing turbulence within the Ministry of Petroleum, which has now become an open secret, has prompted key stakeholders in the capital to consider replacing Dr. Malik with a more “suitable” candidate. Media reports suggest that a Federal Cabinet reshuffle is on the horizon. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to not only reassign portfolios but also introduce new members to his cabinet to streamline government operations.
According to a source within the Ministry of Petroleum, Dr. Malik’s performance has been described as “below average.” Despite his backing from the Punjab government, critics argue that he lacks substantial achievements to justify his continuation as the Federal Minister for Petroleum.
In an informal media interaction at the Ministry—where access to the second floor of the A Block in the Pak Secretariat is restricted for journalists—Dr. Malik strongly refuted rumors about any impending changes to his portfolio. He stated, “I am unaware of any decisions regarding changes to my portfolio or those of other federal cabinet members.”
Dr. Malik further remarked, “If I ever feel sidelined or excluded from key decisions pertaining to my ministry, I would prefer to step down from my position.” Responding to concerns about his absence from recent cabinet discussions on critical ministry matters, he clarified that he was abroad on an official visit approved by the Prime Minister.
On the matter of the additional secretary’s transfer, the Minister firmly denied involvement, saying, “If I were behind the transfer, I would openly admit it to you. Media professionals are my brothers.” He assured that decisions in the ministry are made with the best intentions, though he acknowledged that some assessments could require reevaluation, and he was open to making necessary corrections.
The more-than-hour-long briefing by Dr. Malik, notably held without the ministry’s secretary, appeared focused on addressing recent media reports and clarifying his stance on various issues.
Speculations on Successor
Sources suggest that Jam Kamal, the current Federal Minister for Commerce and a former State Minister for Petroleum, is a leading candidate to replace Dr. Malik in the Petroleum Ministry. Jam Kamal’s performance in the Commerce Ministry has reportedly been impressive, with rising exports, a reduced trade deficit, and a current account surplus contributing to the federal government’s achievements.
Additionally, Jam Kamal, hailing from Balochistan, is credited with bolstering the PML-N’s influence in the province, both within and beyond the Provincial Assembly. Recognizing his contributions, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is reportedly inclined to assign him the Petroleum portfolio in the anticipated cabinet reshuffle.
Meanwhile, another source outside the ministry hinted at the possibility of Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar taking on the responsibilities of the Petroleum Ministry alongside his current role as Deputy Prime Minister.
As the reshuffle looms, the political dynamics within the capital remain fluid, with key decisions likely to shape the government’s approach in the coming months.
