Though Warraich did not name Khattak directly in his latest column, he gave several hints so as to make the name of the next potential prime minister obvious.
In his piece titled 'Replacement Found', the analyst hinted a discussion had been ongoing in the corridors of power regarding the probable change. The write-up suggests that several names have been discussed during the consultations.
Last week, Federal Minister for Railways Sheikh Rasheed dispelled rumors regarding Prime Minister Imran Khan’s premature departure, saying a “minus one could lead to minus three.”
“Imran Khan is not going anywhere,” Rasheed had said while addressing a news conference. “And let me warn you, if there is going to be a minus one, then it will result into a minus three.” He further said, “neither we are the last choice, nor there will be a minus one.”
On June 30, while speaking on the floor of the National Assembly, PM Imran dismissed the ‘minus one’ notion, saying they (opposition) doesn't know that even of that happens, the 'others' will not spare them, thought he didn't make a direct reference.