Ishaq Dar relieved of Finance Ministry duties

ISLAMABAD (92 News) – Ishaq Dar has been relieved of his duties from the Finance Ministry, it was confirmed by sources in the PM House on Wednesday. The sources said that Ishaq Dar, however, will remain a federal minister without any portfolio. They added that Ishaq Dar had been facing immense pressure and he resigned after consultation. A notification issued by the Cabinet Division stated that the prime minister is "pleased to allow leave of absence to Mr. Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Minister for Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, with immediate effect in terms of sub-section (1) of section of Federal Ministers and Ministers for State Salaries, Allowances and Privileges Act 1975". An advisory council will be formed to run the Finance Ministry. Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi will head the advisory council. The opposition has been demanding his resignation since a reference was filed against him. Ishaq Dar is being treated at Harley Street Hospital. He faces a reference of assets disproportionate to his income. Senior analyst Dr Malick has termed his resignation a good and pleasant news.