Has Jahangir Khan Tareen’s return to Pakistan’s political arena paved the way for a new political chapter? Founding the new Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party in 2023, the seasoned politician from a prominent Pashtun family in Comilla is setting his sights on a significant role in shaping the future of both provincial and federal governments.
Tareen’s journey is one of a high-flier turned political figure; an academic and banking professional with an MBA from the University of North Carolina, he leaped into the political fray in 2002, grabbing a National Assembly seat under the PML-Q. His political clout expanded as he served as Special Advisor on agriculture and social sector initiatives in Punjab and later as the Federal Minister for Industries and Production in 2004.
The turning point in Tareen’s political career came in 2011 with his alliance with Imran Khan’s PTI. His influence grew within the party, serving as General Secretary until December 2017. However, his journey has not been smooth sailing. The Supreme Court’s 2017 verdict for financial dishonesty under Article 62(1)(f) served as a significant roadblock, disqualifying him from holding office, albeit not permanently, as he was later cleared to run for office in 2024.
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Controversies seem to have constantly tailed Tareen, from allegations of fraudulent submissions to the Election Commission to accusations of insider trading. Perhaps most damaging was his falling out with PTI amidst the sugar scam investigation, a scandal that rippled through the corridors of power in Pakistan.
Despite these setbacks, Tareen’s resilience is evident in his move to establish a new political entity. The Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party, born out of dissent within the PTI ranks, is a bold attempt to realign the political landscape in Punjab, the province that is often regarded as the heartland of Pakistani politics.
Tareen’s party emerges at a time of political upheaval and economic challenges for the country. With an aim to be a major player in the upcoming governmental formations, his party’s policies and political maneuvers are being closely watched by allies and adversaries alike.
As the political chessboard of Pakistan continues to shift, Tareen’s political savvy and experience will be tested. His ability to navigate through the intricacies of party politics, while keeping his eye on the bigger picture of national progress, will determine the future of his new political venture. What remains certain is that Jahangir Khan Tareen’s name will remain etched in the annals of Pakistan’s political narrative as a figure of endurance and ambition.
Tags: #JahangirKhanTareen, #PakistaniPolitics, #IstehkamEPakistanParty, #PoliticalComeback, #PunjabGovernment
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