President Dr. Arif Alvi's official five-year term is set to conclude today, although the accomplished dentist-turned-politician is expected to remain in office even after the expiration of his constitutionally mandated tenure.
President Alvi is poised to become the fourth head of state to complete a full five-year term. His predecessors who served their complete terms include the fifth president, Fazal Ilahi Chaudhry (1973 to 1978), the 11th president, Asif Ali Zardari (2008 to 2013), and the 12th president, Mamnoon Hussain (2013 to 2018).
During consultative meetings held last week, President Alvi expressed his willingness to continue performing his duties until the appointment of his successor.
Article 44 of the Constitution explicitly states that in the absence of the National and provincial assemblies, the president cannot be removed from office upon the completion of his term unless he voluntarily chooses to leave the esteemed position or departs of his own accord.
As the clock ticks down on President Alvi's presidency, speculations abound, reflecting Pakistan's historical complexity in bidding farewell to its heads of state, including influential army generals.