Top 10 Prime Ministers of Pakistan
When you search for the top 10 Prime Ministers of Pakistan and their achievements, chances are you want more than just names. You’re probably curious about what they actually did, how they influenced Pakistan’s growth, and whether their policies left a lasting impact. That’s exactly what this article will cover — in plain, simple English.
As someone who has studied Pakistan’s political history since college days, I’ve seen how different leaders shaped our economy, foreign relations, and democracy. Some Prime Ministers made bold reforms, while others struggled due to political instability. IMO, understanding their journeys helps us appreciate Pakistan’s struggles and progress better.
Let’s dive into the 10 most influential Prime Ministers of Pakistan, highlighting their key achievements and what history remembers them for.
1. Liaquat Ali Khan (1947–1951) – The Nation Builder
Liaquat Ali Khan was Pakistan’s first Prime Minister, often remembered as the “Shaheed-e-Millat.”
Achievements:
- Introduced the Objectives Resolution (1949), laying the foundation of Pakistan’s constitution.
- Strengthened ties with the United States and other countries.
- Focused on nation-building after independence despite severe financial and refugee crises.
👉 According to National Assembly of Pakistan (na.gov.pk), his leadership provided early stability to a fragile state.
2. Khawaja Nazimuddin (1951–1953) – Facing Early Challenges
Khawaja Nazimuddin took office after Liaquat Ali Khan’s assassination.
Achievements:
- Preserved political stability during tough times.
- Promoted Urdu as the national language, which sparked debate but also built cultural identity.
- Dealt with food shortages and public unrest.
Though short-lived, his era reflected the struggles of a new state still finding its ground.
3. Mohammad Ali Bogra (1953–1955) – Diplomatic Efforts
Mohammad Ali Bogra is best known for his Bogra Formula, a constitutional proposal to balance power between East and West Pakistan.
Achievements:
- Advanced Pakistan’s foreign policy by building relations with the US.
- Proposed constitutional reforms to end political deadlock.
- Strengthened the defense sector through international alliances.
The Bogra Formula later influenced debates on federalism in Pakistan.
4. Zulfikar Ali Bhutto (1973–1977) – The Reformer
Zulfikar Ali Bhutto remains one of Pakistan’s most charismatic leaders.
Achievements:
- Introduced the 1973 Constitution, still the backbone of Pakistan’s law.
- Founded Pakistan’s nuclear program after the 1971 war.
- Strengthened ties with the Muslim world, hosting the OIC Summit (1974).
- Launched major industrial and land reforms.
FYI, Wikipedia notes that Bhutto’s socialist policies reshaped Pakistan’s economy.
5. Muhammad Khan Junejo (1985–1988) – Civilian Leadership
Handpicked by General Zia, Junejo surprised many with his independent approach.
Achievements:
- Lifted martial law and restored political freedoms.
- Signed the Geneva Accord (1988), paving the way for Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan.
- Focused on rural development and public welfare.
Junejo’s dismissal showed the tension between democracy and military rule.
6. Benazir Bhutto (1988–1990, 1993–1996) – The People’s Leader
Benazir Bhutto made history as the first female Prime Minister of the Muslim world.
Achievements:
- Strengthened women’s rights and education.
- Worked on privatization and economic liberalization.
- Boosted Pakistan’s image globally as a progressive Muslim nation.
Her leadership inspired millions, especially women, despite political challenges.
7. Nawaz Sharif (1990–1993, 1997–1999, 2013–2017) – Infrastructure Builder
Nawaz Sharif is remembered for his focus on economy and infrastructure.
Achievements:
- Conducted nuclear tests in 1998 (Chagai-I), making Pakistan a nuclear power.
- Built motorways, highways, and power projects.
- Promoted privatization and industrial growth.
- Expanded relations with China and initiated CPEC groundwork later in his career.
He remains one of the most influential (and controversial) political figures in Pakistan.
8. Yousaf Raza Gillani (2008–2012) – Parliamentary Strength
Gillani led during a critical post-Musharraf era.
Achievements:
- Restored parliamentary supremacy by passing the 18th Amendment.
- Strengthened provincial autonomy and devolution of power.
- Expanded social programs like Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP).
He helped rebuild democracy after years of dictatorship.
9. Imran Khan (2018–2022) – The Reformer with Vision
Imran Khan, a former cricket star, brought a wave of hope under his party, PTI.
Achievements:
- Launched Ehsaas Program, one of the largest social welfare projects.
- Promoted digital Pakistan and youth initiatives.
- Took strong stances on foreign policy, highlighting Kashmir at the UN.
- Pushed anti-corruption campaigns.
His tenure sparked debates — was he a reformer or a populist? Either way, his mark is undeniable.
10. Shehbaz Sharif (2022–2023, 2024–present) – The Administrator
Known for his administrative skills, Shehbaz Sharif focused on crisis management.
Achievements:
- Managed Pakistan during tough economic times with IMF negotiations.
- Pushed development projects in Punjab and nationwide.
- Advocated for climate resilience after Pakistan’s 2022 floods.
Shehbaz’s focus remains on practical governance and service delivery.
Key Takeaways
- Liaquat Ali Khan built Pakistan’s foundation.
- Bhutto (Z.A.) gave us the 1973 Constitution and nuclear vision.
- Nawaz Sharif and Shehbaz Sharif shaped infrastructure.
- Benazir Bhutto symbolized women’s empowerment.
- Imran Khan pushed welfare and international advocacy.
Each leader faced unique challenges, but together, they shaped Pakistan’s political journey.
FAQs
Q1: Who was the first Prime Minister of Pakistan?
A1: Liaquat Ali Khan, from 1947 to 1951, was the first Prime Minister.
Q2: Which Prime Minister made Pakistan a nuclear power?
A2: Nawaz Sharif in 1998, after successful nuclear tests.
Q3: Who introduced Pakistan’s 1973 Constitution?
A3: Zulfikar Ali Bhutto introduced the 1973 Constitution.
Q4: Who was the first female Prime Minister of Pakistan?
A4: Benazir Bhutto, elected in 1988.
Q5: Which Prime Minister is known for Ehsaas Programme?
A5: Imran Khan launched the Ehsaas welfare program in 2019.
