Overview

Mir Hazar Khan Khoso (30 September 1929 – 26 June 2021) was a Pakistani jurist who briefly led the federal government as caretaker prime minister in 2013. A retired judge and former head of the Federal Shariat Court, Khoso was appointed to oversee the transition to a democratically elected administration during the scheduled general elections. His name is rendered in several languages, including Urdu and Balochi.

Judicial career and roles

Khoso spent the bulk of his public service in the judicial branch. He served as Chief Justice of Pakistan's Federal Shariat Court, an institution tasked with reviewing legislation and ensuring compliance with Islamic injunctions. During his judicial career he was widely regarded as a senior and experienced legal figure called upon for neutral, administrative responsibilities after retirement.

Caretaker prime minister (2013)

On 25 March 2013 Khoso was sworn in as caretaker prime minister, a temporary post that continued until 5 June 2013. The caretaker government exists to manage routine administration, maintain impartiality, and facilitate the conduct of free and fair national elections. Khoso's brief premiership covered the period immediately before and after Pakistan's general elections in May 2013 and concluded when a newly elected government took office.

Functions and significance

As an interim head of government, Khoso's responsibilities included:

  • overseeing day-to-day federal administration,
  • cooperating with the Election Commission to support the electoral process, and
  • presenting a nonpartisan public face during a politically sensitive period.

His appointment reflected a common practice in Pakistan of selecting experienced, retired public servants or jurists to head caretaker cabinets so that elections can proceed under perceived neutrality.

Death and legacy

Khoso died on 26 June 2021 in Karachi from a heart attack at the age of 91. He is remembered for his long judicial service and for presiding over the interim government that enabled a routine electoral transfer of power in 2013. His career illustrates the recurring role played by retired judges in Pakistan's caretaker administrations.

For further context on institutions and the 2013 elections see general references on Pakistan's caretaker arrangements and the Federal Shariat Court: related background.