Bilawal Bhutto, Shehbaz Sharif agree to stabilise Pakistan; Nawaz as PM?
Lahore, February 11: In an attempt to address the perceived instability in Pakistan's political landscape, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and PPP President Asif Ali Zardari convened with Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday.
The meeting between the two parties aimed "in principle to save the country from political instability," as reported. According to sources, PML-N is expected to assume the role of prime minister, with the posts of President and Speaker reserved for its allies in a potential alliance. Furthermore, the position of deputy speaker could potentially be offered to the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) or other independent members joining the coalition. The finance ministry might remain with PML-N, while other ministries will be distributed among allies through mutual consultation.
The decision regarding nominations for Senate chairman and deputy chairman positions will be made following the Senate elections in consultation with coalition partners. According to a statement released by PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif, the meeting between him and Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari focused on the nation's current state and future political cooperation. Both leaders agreed to collaborate politically to achieve political stability in the country.
The PPP leadership will present PML-N's proposals during the Central Executive Committee meeting. The PML-N delegation comprised Azam Nazir Tarar, Ayaz Sadiq, Ahsan Iqbal, Rana Tanveer, Khawaja Saad Rafiq, Malik Ahmad Khan, Marriyum Aurangzeb, and Shaza Fatima. Moreover, the Secretariat of the PPP Chairman emphasised that this marked the first official contact between PPP and PML-N regarding government formation. The discussion centered on government formation and cooperation between the two parties.
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Meanwhile, Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, the convener of MQM-P, emphasised the importance of all parties collaborating to navigate Pakistan out of its current challenging situation. He underscored that discussions regarding government formation have yet to take place. These developments came after PML-N released a statement suggesting a "principle agreement" with MQM-P to collaborate in the next government.
In a statement posted by PML-N leader Marriyum Aurangzeb, it was noted that an in-principle agreement had been reached between PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif and MQM leadership. The meeting, attended by leaders from both parties, engaged in a comprehensive discussion on the current situation and potential solutions. In summary, the political landscape in Pakistan is witnessing significant developments as parties explore avenues for cooperation amidst post-election uncertainties.
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(Inputs from agencies)