Marriyum Aurangzeb, the PML-N spokesperson, has been given the task by Nawaz Sharif to assist his daughter Maryam Nawaz in managing the affairs of the Punjab government. Previously, she had a close relationship with Shehbaz Sharif, accompanying him on many foreign trips while he was prime minister.
According to a party insider, Maryam Nawaz, who is taking on a top public office for the first time, is feeling nervous and in need of an experienced ally to assist her in the Punjab Assembly and in dealing with the bureaucracy. Marriyum Aurangzeb was chosen by Nawaz Sharif for this role.
It is speculated that Aurangzeb will essentially act as a deputy chief minister at times, shadowing Maryam Nawaz. The civil bureaucracy in Punjab is also expected to seek good relations with Aurangzeb for their political needs and appointments.
There were reports of Hamza Shehbaz, son of Shehbaz Sharif, being absent during Maryam Nawaz’s oath-taking ceremony as the CM in the Punjab Assembly. It is assumed that Hamza may not receive important portfolios in Maryam’s cabinet due to his close relationship with some party MPAs. Hamza is expected to move to the Centre, where his father will be the premier.