The official website of Pakistan’s Ministry of Finance continues to show Asad Umar as the Finance Minister, despite Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh assuming the role of Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue.
Asad Umar formally resigned from his position on April 18, 2019, a decision that was quickly accepted by President Arif Alvi the following day on the advice of Prime Minister Imran Khan. Umar’s resignation marked the end of a tumultuous period in which he faced mounting criticism over the country’s economic challenges, including inflation and currency devaluation.
On April 19, 2019, the Prime Minister’s Office issued an official notification appointing Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh as Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue. This appointment, while technically different from a formal Finance Minister title, carries the same authority and responsibility. Dr. Hafeez Shaikh, a seasoned economist with experience in both the private sector and multilateral institutions, took charge on April 20, 2019, and promptly issued a public statement outlining his vision for steering Pakistan’s economy towards stability. His statement was shared widely across the Ministry of Finance’s official Twitter and Facebook accounts.
However, despite the swift transition and official announcements, the Ministry of Finance’s website had yet to reflect the change in leadership at the time of this report (01:53 AM, April 21, 2019). The website continued to display Asad Umar as the Finance Minister, complete with his photograph and biographical details. The oversight has raised questions about the ministry’s efficiency in updating its digital presence to reflect significant changes in governance.
This delay has sparked discussions among political observers and citizens alike, as the discrepancy on such a high-profile website undermines the government’s efforts to project transparency and efficiency. In an age where timely information is critical, especially regarding economic matters, such lapses can create confusion both domestically and internationally.
Dr. Hafeez Shaikh’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Pakistan, as the country faces ongoing fiscal challenges and negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a bailout package. His vast experience, including previous stints as Pakistan’s finance minister and his work with the World Bank, is expected to be pivotal in guiding the country through its economic turbulence.
As of the filing of this report, no official explanation had been provided by the Ministry of Finance regarding the delayed update on their website, though it is anticipated that the correction will be made in due course.