The expansion of the cabinet will formally mark the joining by MQM of the central government as it is already in alliance with the PPP in Sindh government. Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) has decided to become a part of the federal cabinet.
The decision to this effect was reached at a meeting of MQM Coordination Committee which was later ratified by MQM chief Altaf Hussain. Sources said MQM MNA Dr Farooq Sattar, Senator Babar Khan Ghauri and Senator Ahmed Ali are likely to take oath as federal ministers. The two ministers belonging to the JUI-F are Senator Muhammad Azam Swati and Mualana Fazal-ur-Rahman's brother MNA Maulana Ata-ur-Rahman. JUI confirmed that Azam Swati and Ata have been nominated by the party.
Some reports suggested that Awami National Party (ANP) is also expected to be given one slot of minister of state. However, the ANP leader Senator Ilyas Bilour said that he had no knowledge about this issue. According to him, by and large the party share in the federal cabinet has already been utilised.
Sources said that the new ministers will take oath at the President House at 7.00 pm. President Asif Ali Zardari will administer the oath. All the ministers, some foreign diplomats and important personalities have been invited for the oath taking ceremony.