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Naqvi's Unexpected Rise: A Journalist Thrust into Pakistan's Premiership

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  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, February 16th 2026 at 7:09 GMT by moneycontrol.com
      Locales: INDIA, PAKISTAN

The Unexpected Prime Minister: Mohsin Naqvi's path to the premiership was notably unconventional. A career journalist, his appointment as caretaker Prime Minister came as a surprise to many. While caretaker positions are typically filled by individuals perceived as neutral and technically capable of overseeing the transition to a fully elected government, Naqvi's lack of prior experience in executive governance raised immediate concerns. Critics argue his selection was driven more by political expediency than by a genuine assessment of his qualifications to address the country's deep-rooted problems. This perception of a politically motivated appointment has contributed significantly to the erosion of public trust.

Beyond the Boundary: A Nation's Discontent The cricket match served as a breaking point, but the discontent with Naqvi extends far beyond the sports arena. The terms "jahil" (ignorant) and "incompetent" are trending across social media platforms, used to describe what many perceive as a failure to effectively address critical issues facing Pakistan. The country's economy is currently grappling with crippling debt, high inflation, and a precarious balance of payments. Simultaneously, concerns over law and order - particularly in regions bordering Afghanistan - continue to escalate. Citizens are frustrated by the perceived lack of decisive action on these fronts, and Naqvi is increasingly bearing the brunt of that frustration.

The Power of the Digital Echo Chamber: Social media has become the primary battlefield for expressing this discontent. Every pronouncement and decision made by Naqvi is subject to intense scrutiny and often merciless mockery. The virality of memes ridiculing his mannerisms and policies amplifies the negative sentiment, creating an echo chamber where criticism is relentless. While social media isn't necessarily representative of the entire population, its influence in shaping public opinion is undeniable. The speed and reach of these platforms mean that negative perceptions can spread rapidly, making it exceedingly difficult for Naqvi to counter the narrative.

A System Under Strain: This situation isn't solely about one individual. Naqvi's predicament highlights a deeper, more systemic issue: a profound disillusionment with Pakistan's political establishment. Years of perceived corruption, political maneuvering, and a failure to deliver on promises have eroded public faith in the governing class. The cricket defeat simply provided a convenient outlet for expressing this long-held resentment. The caretaker role itself presents unique challenges. Designed to be temporary, it limits the scope for implementing long-term solutions. Naqvi is expected to facilitate free and fair elections, but also to maintain stability during a period of significant economic and political uncertainty. This delicate balancing act, coupled with the existing challenges, has created a near-impossible situation.

Economic Realities & Security Concerns: Pakistan's economic woes are multifaceted. The country relies heavily on foreign aid and loans, leaving it vulnerable to external economic shocks. The ongoing energy crisis, coupled with rising global commodity prices, has fueled inflation and negatively impacted businesses and households. Furthermore, security concerns remain paramount. The resurgence of militancy in certain regions, coupled with cross-border terrorism, poses a significant threat to stability. Addressing these security threats requires a comprehensive strategy that includes strengthening law enforcement, improving intelligence gathering, and fostering regional cooperation.

The Road Ahead: As Pakistan prepares for general elections, the pressure on Mohsin Naqvi to deliver tangible results will only intensify. Whether he can effectively navigate these challenges and restore public trust remains to be seen. A crucial aspect of his success will depend on his ability to communicate effectively with the public, acknowledge the legitimate grievances, and demonstrate a clear vision for addressing the country's problems. However, the deep-seated issues and the pervasive distrust within the political system suggest that the path ahead will be fraught with difficulties. The current crisis is a stark reminder that leadership requires more than just technical competence; it demands empathy, vision, and a genuine commitment to serving the people.