The first batch of the federal cabinet is likely to take oath on Friday, Pakistan Today has learnt.
A source in the PML-N said around 15 ministers would be taking oath and the ministers for finance, interior, water and power and other key ministries would be sworn in.
“Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif wants that the selection of new cabinet should be made purely on merit and only individuals with impeccable integrity must be shortlisted,” the source added.
He said the formation of federal cabinet was mandatory as under the Article 156 of the constitution, the institution of National Economic Council (NEC) was a requirement to pass the federal budget 2013-14.
“Since the preparation of the federal budget has already been started, the cabinet formation will help form the national economic council,” the source added.
Under the Article 156, the president shall form a national economic council which shall consist of the prime minister, who shall be the Chairman of the Council; the chief ministers and one member from each province to be nominated by the chief minister; and four other members as the PM may nominate from time to time.
