Pakistan's dilemma. How long will a new coalition Government last?

[Yossarian]

I generally don't follow Pakistani politics or support any particular Pakistani political parties. Heck, other than IK and the leaders of the two family clans that run the other two main parties (PPP and PML-N), I don't even know any Pakistani politicians names or the main policies of the various parties.

So I'm saying this as a neutral observer:

Any Pakistani coalition govt. consisting of political parties from the left and right, religious and secular, conservative and liberal, primarily rural and primarily urban, can't/won't last very long. The only thing they have in common is the desire to remove IK/ PTi from government.

In fact, the problems will start from day 1, when the ministerial and govt. posts start being horse traded and allocated.

And that's even before we get to actual policies being debated and implemented in Parliament.

There is no way on earth such a coalition govt. will last until the scheduled time of the next general election.

But, given the current situation, none of them will want an early general election either.

This is just a recipe for chaos.

So, given Pakistan's history, don't rule anything out.

 

[Varun]

Here's betting Bajwa is loving the current situation.

Funny the army chief always gets what he wants. Coincidence? Not!

 

[adi_62941]

Here's betting Bajwa is loving the current situation.

Funny the army chief always gets what he wants. Coincidence? Not!

Because this is what they are trained for, to rule this country. They are doing it perfectly since 1947

 

[Yossarian]

Here's betting Bajwa is loving the current situation.

Funny the army chief always gets what he wants. Coincidence? Not!

Social media does not necessarily make the voters more intelligent. But it certainly reduces the power of local chieftains, clan elders, and local landlords, to control the outside news/information, and to order those under them to vote this way or that way.

This in turns means that the image the generals have been projecting upon the masses as the generals being heroes and saviors of the country each time they've overthrown the govt. is much more difficult to sustain.

Coupled with the fact that, again as a result of social media, whilst they struggle with everyday lives trying to feed and clothe themselves, they see the Generals and the top military brass living lavish lifestyles, living in large expensive houses, kids going to the top schools, wives and other family members enjoying royalty like privileges - all for free, paid for by taxes from the masses, taxes that should instead be spent on schools, hospitals and infrastructure for the poor and needy.

So yes, for now, the top military brass might be happy. But their next coup won't be as popular as the previous ones.

 

[Mamoon]

I love how a lot of people are thinking that they are coming up with something genius by asserting that this coalition will not lost.

Oh well, sky is blue.

This is not a coalition per se, this is just a temporary marriage of inconvenience to ensure the ousting of Imran.

Now that Imran has been humiliated and booted out in the most unceremonious fashion, this temporary arrangement will slowly start to fizzle out and you will see both PMLN and PPP aggressively campaigning against each other.

However, both these parties have caused and will cause far less damage than what Imran and his party did to Pakistan.

 

[Yossarian]

I love how a lot of people are thinking that they are coming up with something genius by asserting that this coalition will not lost.

Oh well, sky is blue.

This is not a coalition per se, this is just a temporary marriage of inconvenience to ensure the ousting of Imran.

Now that Imran has been humiliated and booted out in the most unceremonious fashion, this temporary arrangement will slowly start to fizzle out and you will see both PMLN and PPP aggressively campaigning against each other.

However, both these parties have caused and will cause far less damage than what Imran and his party did to Pakistan.

So what your point after all that?
You're disagreeing with the OP?
Or agreeing with it?
ie that the coalition will not last very long, certainly not until the scheduled general elections next year. Perhaps not even more than a few months.
What then?
Early elections?
Coup?

 

[Mamoon]

So what your point after all that?
You're disagreeing with the OP?
Or agreeing with it?
ie that the coalition will not last very long, certainly not until the scheduled general elections next year. Perhaps not even more than a few months.
What then?
Early elections?
Coup?

It will last until the next general elections but if doesn’t, early elections. Either way, Imran is finished and that is all that matters.

 

[saeedhk]

It will last till the next elections. The Miltab will ensure its survival and preempt any attempts by Khan to conduct fresh elections. Even in 2023, the PTI will not be allowed to win many seats as Khan has lost the confidence of the military. In short, Khan will never be a PM again and the PTI will become irrelevant come election 2023. That being said, you never know what Pakistan politics holds for you.

 

[DeadlyVenom]

It won't last longer than 3 months.

 

[Varun]

It will last till the next elections. The Miltab will ensure its survival and preempt any attempts by Khan to conduct fresh elections. Even in 2023, the PTI will not be allowed to win many seats as Khan has lost the confidence of the military. In short, Khan will never be a PM again and the PTI will become irrelevant come election 2023. That being said, you never know what Pakistan politics holds for you.

What does this practically mean? Bajwa has a remote control and he can add or subtract seats of political parties on results day at will?

 

[Markhor]

Like Imran's government, it'll be very difficult to keep together such an array of ideologically diverse parties which united only on one basis - the removal of Imran.

On a side note, great to see the OP back posting. Learned a lot from reading his contributions over the years.

 

[saeedhk]

What does this practically mean? Bajwa has a remote control and he can add or subtract seats of political parties on results day at will?

Yes. It had happened before and it will happen again. In fact, our former defense minister Khawaja Asif only won his seat after calling the COAS on the election night when he was trailing second.

 

[MenInG]

Basically when thieves get together in a coalition, the final outcome is a given.

 

[Major]

In parliamentary politics you learn to work together. Even without this coalition thats how things are.

The last pm we had, he was trying to work without the national assembly which resulted in his ouster.

The coalition was formed for the purpose of removing imran and than getting a pm, someone who knows how parliament works, and get work done.

The parliament has been closed for many months, the previous pm never bothered to have discussions with the opposition.

Anyways, the army wants someone to fix up the foreign policy blunders and the economy. This coalition is for obvious reason just for time being.

The differences will stay. Its not as if all differences are over. The differences will stay but at the same time you need a pm who actually works with the national assembly members.

People can call the this govt thief or what no, but tell me, why did ptm join this coalition? They are not interested in money or anything.

Its because all parties have a common understanding that the previous govt was doing nothing. They were just acting as the armies tool and nothing else.

Ppp, pmln, mqm, ptm, bap, jui, there differences will continue. But these parties jave leaders that understand politics, they understand parliamentary politics. And that is you have to operate with the national assembly. You cannot decide to pass ordinances after ordimances and use nab against anyone you dont like.

PDM is there for 1.5 years. Thats it. After they are allotted there ministries they will work accordingly and than come back to campaign in care taker.

If imran khan doesn't end up coming back in national assembly, pdm can appoint any care taker govt they want.

PPP is the oldest party of Pakistan politics, zardari knows how to play politics

 

[daytrader]

In parliamentary politics you learn to work together. Even without this coalition thats how things are.

The last pm we had, he was trying to work without the national assembly which resulted in his ouster.

The coalition was formed for the purpose of removing imran and than getting a pm, someone who knows how parliament works, and get work done.

The parliament has been closed for many months, the previous pm never bothered to have discussions with the opposition.

Anyways, the army wants someone to fix up the foreign policy blunders and the economy. This coalition is for obvious reason just for time being.

The differences will stay. Its not as if all differences are over. The differences will stay but at the same time you need a pm who actually works with the national assembly members.

People can call the this govt thief or what no, but tell me, why did ptm join this coalition? They are not interested in money or anything.

Its because all parties have a common understanding that the previous govt was doing nothing. They were just acting as the armies tool and nothing else.

Ppp, pmln, mqm, ptm, bap, jui, there differences will continue. But these parties jave leaders that understand politics, they understand parliamentary politics. And that is you have to operate with the national assembly. You cannot decide to pass ordinances after ordimances and use nab against anyone you dont like.

PDM is there for 1.5 years. Thats it. After they are allotted there ministries they will work accordingly and than come back to campaign in care taker.

If imran khan doesn't end up coming back in national assembly, pdm can appoint any care taker govt they want.

PPP is the oldest party of Pakistan politics, zardari knows how to play politics

Lost all credibility of your post when you mentioned Mr. 10%. You could learn some politics and tactics from your leader's playback.

The only reason they are together is to ouster Khan. Historically these parties made little decisions in Parliament as most would be made at Zardari house and Jati umrah so it's going to be interesting to see how their decision making process is going to be. They should call an election as soon as possible, that will make their alliance seem like a legitimate democratic movement.

 

[moghul]

They will try to steal whatever they could in a hurry as they don;t have much time on their disposal, they will last 4-6 months .

First priority for them would be to "recover" money spent on buying lotas, they are getting expensive too.

 

[Major]

My favourite part of the pdm is that everyone is bringing a gun to this fight. No one trust each other.

Question is, whose is gonna fire the first bullet and cause chaos.

Knowing mqm and the fools they have got, i am ready to bet money on them. They will be the first one taking insult on something and causing an issue.

This why imran commit a mistake by going into by elections. Pdm has to win few of the mqm seats to be much more strong.

 

[Bewal Express]

These crooks don't have a choice but stay together. They are like drunks holding onto each other to stay standing.

 

[Bewal Express]

They will try to steal whatever they could in a hurry as they don;t have much time on their disposal, they will last 4-6 months .

First priority for them would be to "recover" money spent on buying lotas, they are getting expensive too.

SS has already declared 3 PM houses. Its been an expensive 3 years for him.

 

[Kianig89]

3-4months this chooran chutni would last just wait and see more suicidal decisions like wage upto 25,000 this will also increase production cost and inturn more inflation its all rock and roll now

 

[Major]

3-4months this chooran chutni would last just wait and see more suicidal decisions like wage upto 25,000 this will also increase production cost and inturn more inflation its all rock and roll now

Here we go. We alreaty have posters complaining about 25k minimum salaray.

The problem with overseas not knowing the problems of pakistan.

This guy was happy that 16 500 minimum salary is being paid in a country where rents are above 15k with many people not able to run an ac in hot summer and with rising petrol prices

Tooba. You are shielded from all the problems we locals face, be glad about it

If you went through the problems that the locals go through, you wouldnt even dare to say what you just said

 

[Kianig89]

Here we go. We alreaty have posters complaining about 25k minimum salaray.

The problem with overseas not knowing the problems of pakistan.

This guy was happy that 16 500 minimum salary is being paid in a country where rents are above 15k with many people not able to run an ac in hot summer and with rising petrol prices

Tooba. You are shielded from all the problems we locals face, be glad about it

If you went through the problems that the locals go through, you wouldnt even dare to say what you just said

So people with minimum wage live in a 15k rented house and have Ac installed are you serious

 

[Major]

So people with minimum wage live in a 15k rented house and have Ac installed are you serious

I am telling you how people already suffer. If you dont start increasing minimum salary they will suffer for ever.

Just because people who live on minimum salary cant afford basic needs your point is that we should not look to make improvments and continue to let them live like that?

Pathetic.

Be thankful that you are privledged before going on making such posts

 

[Kianig89]

I am telling you how people already suffer. If you dont start increasing minimum salary they will suffer for ever.

Just because people who live on minimum salary cant afford basic needs your point is that we should not look to make improvments and continue to let them live like that?

Pathetic.

Be thankful that you are privledged before going on making such posts

Tell me where is that min salary rule applicable in Pakistan its all dhong drama and nothing else if he wants to give relief then why not slash oil prices by 20% or basic commodities by 30%
Also is there any law which binds an employer to minimum wage nothing stop living in a fools paradise

 

[daytrader]

So people with minimum wage live in a 15k rented house and have Ac installed are you serious

They also run on petrol! Lol this guy is the know it all of the local Pakistanis. Eventhough he himself doesn't go through the problems he explained as he's from an upper class family.

 

[Bewal Express]

I am telling you how people already suffer. If you dont start increasing minimum salary they will suffer for ever.

Just because people who live on minimum salary cant afford basic needs your point is that we should not look to make improvments and continue to let them live like that?

Pathetic.

Be thankful that you are privledged before going on making such posts

How do you think Businesses will pay for it.

 

[pakistanisgreat]

May be a week or a month. Even if they do not stay together an hour still this would not be a news. we know what gonna happen to them sooner or later.
But the main thing is damage has been done. Specially when someone was thinking there is no option but him. I think establishment has showed him who is the boss and they do have options.

 

[Major]

Tell me where is that min salary rule applicable in Pakistan its all dhong drama and nothing else if he wants to give relief then why not slash oil prices by 20% or basic commodities by 30%
Also is there any law which binds an employer to minimum wage nothing stop living in a fools paradise

Employers are required to pay by the minimum salary. They can be legally taken to court if they try to pay below.

However having done jobs i have realized the loophole that exists. The loophole is that is that we have 3 months probation period which is often called internship period where little or no money is paid.

If that could be fixed and amended that would be great.

Anyways by increasing the minimum salary from 16.5 to 25 is a great start. I would had preferred it being at 30k.

Btw there are laws whiich employers have to follow.... I dont know in which paradise you live.....

Happy with this start. Atleast much better than the last pm who was making appeal to companies, yar plz salary increase kardo . Its the pm job to implement it by law not by begging

 

[Kianig89]

Employers are required to pay by the minimum salary. They can be legally taken to court if they try to pay below.

However having done jobs i have realized the loophole that exists. The loophole is that is that we have 3 months probation period which is often called internship period where little or no money is paid.

If that could be fixed and amended that would be great.

Anyways by increasing the minimum salary from 16.5 to 25 is a great start. I would had preferred it being at 30k.

Btw there are laws whiich employers have to follow.... I dont know in which paradise you live.....

Happy with this start. Atleast much better than the last pm who was making appeal to companies, yar plz salary increase kardo . Its the pm job to implement it by law not by begging

Haha stopped reading after words like can be, if I don't know you are not aware of ground realities in Pakistan just a couch analyst

 

[Major]

How do you think Businesses will pay for it.

If a business is not able to pay its employees a basic minimum salary after using 9 hours of his time, than i guess a business like that should seize to exist.

Funny hkw you have issue with this. Than again you dont live here, how would you understand having low salary not being able to afford a basic needs.... Cant afford air conditioning int their houses and have to bare the heat and humidity.
Cant afford to buy a car so a poor father has to buy a bike on which he has to carry his 4 family members. A bike, whoch is known as being a death trap.

 

[Kianig89]

If a business is not able to pay its employees a basic minimum salary after using 9 hours of his time, than i guess a business like that should seize to exist.

Funny hkw you have issue with this. Than again you dont live here, how would you understand having low salary not being able to afford a basic needs.... Cant afford air conditioning int their houses and have to bare the heat and humidity.
Cant afford to buy a car so a poor father has to buy a bike on which he has to carry his 4 family members. A bike, whoch is known as being a death trap.

All these problems my friend remind of a certain province in Pakistan Sindh where PPP has ruled for about 30 Yr yet there is no iota of imrovement

 

[Major]

Haha stopped reading after words like can be, if I don't know you are not aware of ground realities in Pakistan just a couch analyst

Like i said, live overseas, make a weekly salary enoguh for whole months grocery.

While critisize pakistani people who cant afford to pay their rent with the monthly salary they get.

I am a couch analyst? I know the society better than you. Lived in the poor areas and have many family members who are hand to mouth...

Be thankful that you are shielded from all this before going on whining about increase in minimum salary

 

[WhenSultansBowled]

What does this practically mean? Bajwa has a remote control and he can add or subtract seats of political parties on results day at will?

Just see the way elections are held in Pakistan.

IK tried his best to introduce EVMs but expect thieves to get rid of them.

Some MNAs start their votes at 10-15 thousands.

 

[WhenSultansBowled]

It will last until the next general elections but if doesn’t, early elections. Either way, Imran is finished and that is all that matters.

Apparently millions of Pakistanis who were out on the street protesting beg to differ.

 

[Kianig89]

Like i said, live overseas, make a weekly salary enoguh for whole months grocery.

While critisize pakistani people who cant afford to pay their rent with the monthly salary they get.

I am a couch analyst? I know the society better than you. Lived in the poor areas and have many family members who are hand to mouth...

Be thankful that you are shielded from all this before going on whining about increase in minimum salary

So minimum wage is the main problem of Pakistan not the billions of money laundering tax evasion corruption and law lessness

 

[Bewal Express]

If a business is not able to pay its employees a basic minimum salary after using 9 hours of his time, than i guess a business like that should seize to exist.

Funny hkw you have issue with this. Than again you dont live here, how would you understand having low salary not being able to afford a basic needs.... Cant afford air conditioning int their houses and have to bare the heat and humidity.
Cant afford to buy a car so a poor father has to buy a bike on which he has to carry his 4 family members. A bike, whoch is known as being a death trap.

I am not against paying higher wages but having higher minimums in a PK economy where productivity is so low will either result in higher inflation or job losses. Otherwise why stop at 25000, why not 250,000? So what's it to be? I don't have time to give you a lesson in economics but I have given you the answer.

 

[Gharib Aadmi]

What does this practically mean? Bajwa has a remote control and he can add or subtract seats of political parties on results day at will?

Chowkidar chor hai.

 

[MenInG]

Basically when thieves get together in a coalition, the final outcome is a given.

and it starts...


==

KARACHI: MQM-P's senior leader Wasim Akhtar Thursday lashed out at newly-elected Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for not mentioning the agreement made with his party.

To get the MQM-P's support — a former ally of the PTI government — the joint Opposition had struck an agreement with the party and assured it of following up.

Following MQM-P's decision to switch sides and support the Opposition, the latter had enough votes to oust then-prime minister Imran Khan.

"The stage was set today due to MQM-P's agreement [...] Shehbaz Sharif should have mentioned the agreement made with MQM-P in his speech," Akhtar told journalists in Islamabad.

The announcement of the reintroduction of the Benazir Income Support Programme was a welcome move, but the agreement MQM-P signed with JUI-F, PPP, and PML-N should also have been mentioned, Akhtar said.

"I am recording my protest [...] as Shehbaz Sharif is the prime minister due to MQM-P's support," Akhtar added.

Shehbaz secured 174 votes as opposed to PTI's candidate Shah Mahmood Qureshi, who received no votes after his party decided to boycott the polling process.

The poll took place under the chairmanship of MNA Ayaz Sadiq, two days after the lower house of Parliament voted in favour of removing Imran Khan from office, following a nearly 14-hour standoff between the Opposition and Khan's ruling party that started on Saturday morning.

GEO

 

[KingKhanWC]

The issue with crooks is always crooks will want to loot each other too.

Nobody can guess how long, it could be weeks, months or until general elections. If its GE, PTI will sweep the elections. It will be impossible to rig against them when its clear they have the masses support.

 

[Jadz]

The new regime will last as long as it serves the interests and agendas of those that placed it in power - the US-West. The Pakistani Establishment is beholden to the US for its power base, wealth and influence over the military, Intel and politics.

A pro-US regime will, of necessity, join the anti-Russia (China) crusade, which means a loosening of ties with Pakistan's powerful Asian neighbours and realignment of its foreign policy, re-establishment of links to the West.

For the millions of Pakistanis whose voices and votes have been stolen from them, their lives return to pre-Imran Khan 'normality.' For Establishment and corporate media shills this is a great time to rediscover the meaning of 'profit' (from deliberately manufactured poverty and illiteracy) and disconnecting from the people they claim to represent and/or speak for.

 

[Kriketer]

2 - 3 month maximum. This time nation isn't going to let these chuur loot mafia take control of the country. Enough of these corrupt stooges of the same family looting Pakistan to core. They will soon be running away to foreign lands or better will be getting dragged in the streets by the awaam which all these crooks rightfully deserve.

 

[pakistanisgreat]

This Government will may be last until they announce new chief of army. Army did not want IK to appoint Faiz Hameed.

 

[Colorblind Genius]

This Government will may be last until they announce new chief of army. Army did not want IK to appoint Faiz Hameed.

Truly truly disappointed by the Army's top brass. These guys have absolutely no self respect.

Looks like Faiz Hameed's work in Afghanistan and IK's visit to Russia and his increasing alliance with China acted as boiled potato that got suck in the throat of the few foreigners, and the army happily bent over for them.

 

[Yossarian]

It will last until the next general elections but if doesn’t, early elections. Either way, Imran is finished and that is all that matters.

So all this was simply to get rid of IK, as opposed to PDM proposing and implementing better policies than those that PTi/IK were doing?

As I mentioned in the OP, I don't know much about Pakistani politics. And I don't support any particular side.

So what policies where the PTi implementing that were so detrimental, and what will PDM do instead that will be different, and better, for Pakistanis and Pakistan?

(for the time being leave out foreign policy, and just talk about the domestic and economic policies).

Also, put aside the name calling and the individual personalities, whether it be IK, or the Zardari's or the Sharif's etc, and let's just talk about policies.

It's a genuine question.

 

[Bewal Express]

This Government will may be last until they announce new chief of army. Army did not want IK to appoint Faiz Hameed.

Not the army- just Bajwa. FH had succes in Afg, the Americans hated him and the locals took orders from the Americans. Its not complicated

 

[Bewal Express]

and it starts...


==

KARACHI: MQM-P's senior leader Wasim Akhtar Thursday lashed out at newly-elected Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for not mentioning the agreement made with his party.

To get the MQM-P's support — a former ally of the PTI government — the joint Opposition had struck an agreement with the party and assured it of following up.

Following MQM-P's decision to switch sides and support the Opposition, the latter had enough votes to oust then-prime minister Imran Khan.

"The stage was set today due to MQM-P's agreement [...] Shehbaz Sharif should have mentioned the agreement made with MQM-P in his speech," Akhtar told journalists in Islamabad.

The announcement of the reintroduction of the Benazir Income Support Programme was a welcome move, but the agreement MQM-P signed with JUI-F, PPP, and PML-N should also have been mentioned, Akhtar said.

"I am recording my protest [...] as Shehbaz Sharif is the prime minister due to MQM-P's support," Akhtar added.

Shehbaz secured 174 votes as opposed to PTI's candidate Shah Mahmood Qureshi, who received no votes after his party decided to boycott the polling process.

The poll took place under the chairmanship of MNA Ayaz Sadiq, two days after the lower house of Parliament voted in favour of removing Imran Khan from office, following a nearly 14-hour standoff between the Opposition and Khan's ruling party that started on Saturday morning.

GEO

This is funny MQM used and tossed aside. They are know looking over their shoulder at what happened in Karachi because those 5 seats are about to disappear. Our Urdu speakers are our strength as PKs, these criminals are opportunists. Totally deserved humiliation

 

[Savak]

These guys will have to campaign against each other in the next 6 months, how will they do that effectively if they are going to work together all this while?

 

[daytrader]

These guys will have to campaign against each other in the next 6 months, how will they do that effectively if they are going to work together all this while?

Think of it as a friendly match between two teams. They will work out who bats first

 

[MenInG]

Clock ticking....

==

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) is divided on the issue of Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari joining the federal cabinet as the country’s new foreign minister in the coalition government under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Background interviews with several party leaders confirmed the reports in some media circles that the PPP chairman might become the foreign minister, though in-house consultation on the matter was still ongoing.

There are two camps in the PPP. One believes Mr Bhutto-Zardari should go for the foreign ministry slot, as it would provide him with an experience of handling international affairs and ultimately benefit him if he becomes the country’s prime minister in future.

Members of the other camp, however, think the PPP chairman should not become a part of the federal cabinet under Mr Sharif, as it would undermine his status of being the head of the second-largest party in the ruling coalition. This camp also believes PPP workers may not like to see their chairman working under the prime minister of the PML-N — PPP’s main competitor in politics.

One camp believes the role will benefit him as future PM; others say working under Shehbaz may not sit well with party workers

“I have advised my chairman to become the country’s foreign minister,” said a senior PPP parliamentarian close to Mr Bhutto-Zardari.

He elaborated that 64 per cent of the country’s population comprised people below the age of 30 years, and Mr Bhutto-Zardari was a representative of the youth. Moreover, he said, Bilawal had immense goodwill in the world due to his mother, Benazir Bhutto, which would help him in dealing with international issues with world leaders.

This could help him create a good following among those people who had not seen former prime ministers Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto, and it would ultimately benefit the PPP in future, the party leader said.

He said Mr Bhutto-Zardari’s experience as the foreign minister would strengthen his case of becoming a candidate for the premier. However, he said there had been no formal discussion on the matter and a decision would be made in a day or two.

On the other hand, a senior PPP leader from the second camp insisted that Mr Bhutto-Zardari should not get any cabinet portfolio because then he would not be able to pay attention to party affairs and, as a result, the PPP could suffer in the next general elections.

Interestingly, outgoing foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in his speech on the floor of the National Assembly also advised the young PPP chairman not to become the foreign minister under Mr Sharif.

Mr Qureshi, who also served as the foreign minister during the previous PPP government under former president Asif Ali Zardari, said it did not suit Mr Bhutto-Zardari, the grandson of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and the son of Benazir Bhutto, to accept the foreign ministry under Shehbaz Sharif because the PPP workers would not accept this.

Meanwhile, sources in the new administration told Dawn that so far they had not worked out any formula for distributing portfolios in the federal cabinet and nominations for key constitutional posts of the speaker and the deputy speaker.

A senior PPP leader said they were more interested in getting constitutional offices instead of portfolios in the federal cabinet. He said two constitutional offices had already become vacant after the resignation of the speaker and the deputy speaker. He said the opposition was also planning to remove Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani and then definitely the PPP would like to get the office.

According to him, the office of the president could also become vacant either because of the resignation of President Dr Arif Alvi or through his planned impeachment.

The PPP leader then, in a lighter vein, said they feared that JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman could also demand the office of the president. In that situation, he said, it would become very difficult for the PPP to accept the Maulana as the president, which might not be beneficial for the country as well.

The sources said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would give the ministries after consultations with top government leaders, including Asif Zardari, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Maulana Fazlur Rehman and the heads of other coalition partners, in a day or two.

Published in Dawn, April 12th, 2022

 

[MenInG]

The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) appears to be reluctant to join the federal cabinet due to division in its ranks as most of its leaders are seeking support for electoral reforms without taking ministries while others are of the view that the coalition government won’t last for even two months if they opt to keep to the sidelines.

In this regard, sources said PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari have started consultations on the matter in the light of different and contradictory views.

The sources said most of the PPP leaders are seeking the new federal government’s support for electoral reforms without taking charge of ministries.

Some of the leaders are of the opinion that they should join the federal cabinet for political stability. They believe that participation is necessary for political stability, and if they did not join the cabinet, the coalition government would not be able to function for even two months.

A decision on the PPP’s inclusion in the federal cabinet will be taken in the next few days, they added.

Following an in-house change through the vote of no-confidence, the erstwhile joint opposition moved to the treasury benches after ousting the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf and elected Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Shehbaz Sharif as the 23rd prime minister of Pakistan.

Further, it emerged on Monday that matters were being worked out to decide how ministries would be divided among the new coalition partners.

The sources said that the opposition parties were holding consultations on a formula for forming the next government.

They said that in the first phase, allies would be accommodated in the cabinet as much as possible, and in the second phase, the PPP and the PML-N members would be given some ministries.

The National Assembly speaker’s slot, along with foreign ministry and other ministries, will be given to the PPP. The PPP chairman has refused to take any official post in the new government, they added.

“The opposition alliance has decided to impeach President Arif Alvi and replace him with either former president Asif Ali Zardari or Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman.”

They said that the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan is likely to get two to three ministries, along with the governorship of Sindh, while the Balochistan Awami Party and the Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid are likely to get two and one ministries, respectively.

The added that the JUI-F would be given two to three ministries, Balochistan National Party-Mengal two, Jamhoori Watan Party one, Awami National Party one and Aslam Bhootani will also be given one ministry. The PML-N is likely to bag the most ministries, including interior, information, railways, finance and defence.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/2352139/ppp-appears-reluctant-to-join-federal-cabinet

 

[Kriketer]

"There are two camps in the PPP. One believes Mr Bhutto-Zardari should go for the foreign ministry slot, as it would provide him with an experience of handling international affairs and ultimately benefit him if he becomes the country’s prime minister in future.

Members of the other camp, however, think the PPP chairman should not become a part of the federal cabinet under Mr Sharif, as it would undermine his status of being the head of the second-largest party in the ruling coalition."

Circus is about to begin it seems, much sooner than I was expecting. They were united to carry their circus but now will be getting bitter and divided by the circus. Since they are handing out positions like potato tomato, might as well make Mulla Diesel as foreign affair minister . These stooges will bring their own downfall before the time IK kicks them out for good this time.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Think of it as a friendly match between two teams. They will work out who bats first

This is the most logical answer. Since both parties main goal will be to keep powerful interests outside of Pakistan happy, then bickering for the crumbs is a sideshow. I guess the winner will take the spoils, and the loser will get compense in some other way. Point is, self interest is the main motivator here, not the welfare of the nation.

 

[Bewal Express]

The only thing that will keep the imported crooks together is the fear of Kaptaan. The events of 2 days ago will give these crooks the runs. I want Billo to join the cabinet because he,like the MQM want the benefits of govt but not owning any of the decisions

 

[zn426]

The thought that this group will achieve anything is hilarious. IK led the country through a pandemic and liquidity crisis that these fools caused with a decade of looting and fiscal mismanagement, and you think they will somehow accomplish something? I'm not saying IK was perfect, but the structural malaise was something that was going to take longer than a full term in office to correct, and frankly, having to deal with the pandemic in years 3 and 4 of IK's administration just when the economy was starting to get on track was immensely damaging for the rebuilding Pakistani economy-especially because this is when exports and production were expected to surge, eliminating the loan and trades deficits. I suspect they will collapse within 6 months as they prepare for the 2023 elections.
I don't think IK and PTI are done by any means. It may not be IK as PM candidate next time around, but you know what? That's okay-it will give a new person a shot to run the country. And realistically, next time-you should frankly expect that whoever comes in will come in with a mandate that no one can overturn.

 

[MenInG]

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif does not seem to be in a hurry to appoint his cabinet apparently realising the fragile nature of the ruling alliance, and wants to take along all his allies, particularly those who joined the former opposition after quitting the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) coalition government.

Sources in the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) told Dawn that the leadership of both parties had decided to accommodate all allied parties in the federal cabinet and give them the ministries of their choice.

They said the ruling coalition comprised eight political parties and four independents, and since Mr Sharif had become the prime minister with a mere two-vote margin, he did not want to start his stint in office with any misunderstandings among the allies.

The sources said the PPP, the second largest party in the ruling coalition, had told Mr Sharif that they had no desire to join his cabinet and wanted to support him from the outside. However, Mr Sharif is insisting the party join him.

Talking to reporters at an Iftar- dinner, Mr Sharif said he hoped the PPP would join the cabinet.

“We know the fragile nature of our alliance and we want to see the present government succeeding. We don’t want to give an impression that we have come to power only to get some portfolios or to enjoy perks and privileges,” said a PPP leader, adding: “We want business.”

The PPP leader, who is privy to the consultations on cabinet formation, said Mr Sharif was insisting they join the federal cabinet, as he was of the view that if the PPP remained out of it, it would send a wrong message to the public.

Talking to a private TV channel, PML-N MNA from Faisalabad Rana Sanaullah, who accompanied Mr Sharif during his meetings with the heads of all the allied parties, said the new cabinet would be formed in the next couple of days with a consensus.

Mr Sanaullah claimed that during the meetings with Mr Sharif, the allies had not made any demands, rather they had asked the premier to tell them how they could facilitate him.

The PML-N leader said when they were planning to table the no-confidence resolution against Imran Khan, the first task before the joint opposition was to rid the nation of the “incompetent” PTI government and, therefore, they had not discussed any formula for the distribution of ministries after forming a government. However, he said, it was decided at that time that they would make all the decisions with a consensus.

It may be recalled that the PPP is divided over the issue of joining the federal cabinet under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

A senior PPP leader said they were more interested in getting constitutional offices instead of cabinet portfolios. He said two constitutional offices had already fallen vacant after the resignations of the National Assembly speaker and deputy speaker, while they were also planning to remove Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani. The PPP was interested in the speaker’s office, the Senate chairman and even the Presidency, as they were expecting a resignation from Dr Arif Alvi.

The sources said the PPP had earlier finalised the name of seasoned parliamentarian Syed Naveed Qamar for the office of the speaker, but now the name of Raja Pervaiz Ashraf was also under consideration for the same.

Published in Dawn, April 13th, 2022

 

[silentkiller187]

ISLAMABAD: Amid consultations over the formation of a new federal cabinet in the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led regime, MQM-P has decided not to be part of it, The News reported.

Instead, the party wants to extend its support to the broad-based government from the outside.

With the decision already conveyed to the prime minister, MQM-P convener Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui said his party had discussed the formation of the new cabinet with the leaders of coalition partners in detail.

He said the MQM-P is more interested in the implementation of the commitments made by the coalition partners for the well-being of Karachi and other areas of the province.

"The commitments are significant, which need to be fulfilled," Siddiqui said.

However, the politician did not comment on former Karachi mayor Wasim Akhtar's remarks where he took exception to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for not mentioning commitments with the MQM-P in his maiden speech as the premier in the National Assembly.

The MQM-P had two slots of the federal cabinet in the ousted government of the PTI. Syed Aminul Haque was IT minister while Senator Farogh Nasim was the law minister, representing the MQM-P in the government.

Sources said the MQM-P was offered two slots in the federal government, Sindh’s governorship and about half a dozen slots in the Sindh cabinet beside municipal charge of three big cities of the province including Karachi mayorship but no decision has yet been taken about assuming these assignments.

PM Shehbaz consults coalition partners over cabinet formation
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is in consultation with the leaders of the coalition parties over the formation of his cabinet.

However, sources privy to the matter said that PPP is unwilling to be a part of the cabinet, saying that it would support the government from the treasury benches in a better way.

According to the sources, one group within the party favours the idea of joining the cabinet to strengthen the coalition, while the other group is of the view that the party should instead focus on electoral reforms for early election.

However, the final decision will be made as per the top leadership's will in a few days.

Sources said the PPP was more interested in the constitutional offices of the parliament and it would join the cabinet in the second phase. There is a consensus in the party on taking over the office of the National Assembly speaker with Raja Pervez Ashraf and Syed Naveed Qamar as its candidates.

They claimed that Ashraf was a strong contender, while Maulana Asad Mehmood of the JUI-F, the son of Maulana Fazlur Rehman, could be the deputy speaker.

https://www.geo.tv/latest/411227-mqm-p-decides-not-to-join-federal-cabinet

 

[CricVet]

As Rasheed said, jooton main daal butty hay. Let see how long it lasts. Even as powerful as Gen. Ayub could not sustain the public pressure. These "Jooton kay Dallkhore" will not last for a few months.

 

[Mamoon]

The only thing that will keep the imported crooks together is the fear of Kaptaan. The events of 2 days ago will give these crooks the runs. I want Billo to join the cabinet because he,like the MQM want the benefits of govt but not owning any of the decisions

“Kaptaan” was humiliated, disgraced and dragged out of office. No one fears him. In fact, they view him as a joke.

 

[Mamoon]

As Rasheed said, jooton main daal butty hay. Let see how long it lasts. Even as powerful as Gen. Ayub could not sustain the public pressure. These "Jooton kay Dallkhore" will not last for a few months.

InshAllah it will last for a long time and PTI supporters will continue to burn like hot coal.

 

[Bewal Express]

“Kaptaan” was humiliated, disgraced and dragged out of office. No one fears him. In fact, they view him as a joke.

If having millions of people waiting on your every word is humiliation, then please more of it. On the other hand look at his opposition- crooks to a man, women and all in-between, supported by no one except beggers.

 

[Bewal Express]

InshAllah it will last for a long time and PTI supporters will continue to burn like hot coal.

Whether it's 3 months, 6 or 9, you will have to rig like never before to stay in Bajwas pocket.

 

[MenInG]

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has decided to add 12 PML-N MNAs to his federal cabinet, while PPP will get seven slots, sources told Geo News Thursday.

PM Shehbaz was sworn in as the prime minister on April 11, following the removal of Imran Khan through a no-confidence motion — making him the first premier to be removed through the democratic process.

Sources further said Raja Pervez Ashraf is the candidate for National Assembly speaker as the office is vacant after Asad Qaiser decided to step down late Saturday, while a JUI-F MNA might become the deputy speaker — as Qasim Suri is also facing a no-confidence motion.

Meanwhile, apart from the PML-N and PPP members, JUI-F will get three ministries and a state minister portfolio, MQM-P, BAP, and BNP-M will get two ministries each. Independent candidates are also likely to get ministries, sources said.

MQM-P will get the governorship of Sindh, PPP Punjab, JUI-F Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and BNP-M Balochistan, sources said.

https://www.geo.tv/latest/411533-pml-n-to-have-12-ppp-seven-members-in-federal-cabinet-sources

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

“Kaptaan” was humiliated, disgraced and dragged out of office. No one fears him. In fact, they view him as a joke.

Who views him a joke? Genuine leaders don't need to be "dragged out of office". The people will do it themselves given a chance to vote in the electoral process.

 

[Major]

Who views him a joke? Genuine leaders don't need to be "dragged out of office". The people will do it themselves given a chance to vote in the electoral process.

The people did.

Vote of no confidence was done by the mnas elected by the people in majority

 

[Stewie]

It will last until the next general elections but if doesn’t, early elections. Either way, Imran is finished and that is all that matters.

I think the large crowds in his jalsey are contrary to your assertions. His unceremonious dismissal has only helped raise his popularity. It was on a downward trend but this kind of rejuvenated his following. I dont think he is finished at all.

 

[Stewie]

I hope those here claiming IK's political demise are still here by the time the next election happens so they can be served some humble pie (or beghairat pie if being humble is not possible for them)

 

[MenInG]

KARACHI: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has decided to become part of federal cabinet after Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) succeeded in persuading the former following several rounds of failed talks previously, ARY NEWS reported.

According to sources privy to the matter, a final consultation in this regard will be held at Zardari House after Friday prayers today.

“The PPP has decided to take complete share in the federal cabinet besides also getting the slots of Speaker National Assembly and Chairman Senate,” they said and added, “the slot of president will also be handed over to PPP after consensus.”

The sources further shared that PPP will secure nine ministries in the cabinet and the names will be announced after consultation.

“Raja Pervaiz Ashraf is expected to be candidate for the speaker National Assembly and Yusuf Raza Gilani as candidate for Chairman Senate,” they said.

Until yesterday, Despite multiple meetings between PPP and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), the new coalition set up failed to reach understanding over the formation of federal cabinet.

Sources privy to the development told ARY News that PML-N and PPP held talks on late Wednesday over the formation of federal cabinet after ousting the PTI government.

PML-N delegation was represented by Ayaz Sadiq, Saad Rafique and Rana Sanaullah while from PPP Yousaf Raza Gillani, Sherry Rehman, Raja Pervaiz Ashraf and Naveed Qamar held talks with the largest party in the current coalition, they added.

Sources said that PML-N once again insisted PPP joining Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif led federal cabinet. The PPP delegation suggested giving its ministries in a new coalition set up to other allies including MQM-P BNP and BAP.

It emerged earlier that the federal cabinet under consideration will likely to have 12 ministers from Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and seven ministers from Pakistan People’s Party.

Moreover, JUI-F will likely to be given four ministries, MQM two ministries, while BNP-Mengal, ANP, Jamhoori Watan Party and Balochistan Awami Party will also be given cabinet portfolios.

ARY

 

[MenInG]

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Co-chairman and former president Asif Ali Zardari on Saturday revealed that PPP was not taking any ministry in new coalition government, ARY News reported.

The former president made these remarks while talking to the media outside Parliament House.

“PPP isn’t taking ministries in the new government,” he said, adding that they [PPP] wants to accommodate friends [allies] first.

The central leaders of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) held a consultative session at Zardari House on Friday to discuss the ministries in the new government.

The session was attended by Asif Ali Zardari, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and senior leaders. The central leaders mulled over the proposal of the foreign minister’s slot for PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.

They suggested giving the position of Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) to Sherry Rehman, Khursheed Shah Communication, Naveed Qamar Petroleum and the Ministry of Human Rights to Shazia Marri.

It is learnt that Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) is likely to get slots of three ministers and four state ministers in the new government led by the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N).

It was also recommended to give Rana Sanaullah the ministry of interior, Ahsan Iqbal Planning and Development, Marriyum Aurangzeb Information, Khawaja Asif Defence or Water and Power and Miftah Ismail Finance Adviser, whereas, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi is likely to get no ministry in the Centre.

https://arynews.tv/ppp-not-joining-federal-cabinet-asif-zardari/

 

[Kianig89]

This 12 legged widow cant survive just watch the speeches of small parties

 

[Kriketer]

The people did.

Vote of no confidence was done by the mnas elected by the people in majority

You mean chuurs teaming up to buy more chuurs? All the chuur dakooz murderers had to team up against one man, how shamelessly people support such a mockery...term bagherti comes to mind.

Don't you worry, once people will vote then majority will bring back Imran Khan and throw out this puppet gang of chuur temporary placed corrupt regime

 

[MenInG]

QUETTA (Dunya News) – The Chairperson of Balochistan National Party Mengal (BAP) Sardar Akhtar Mengal on Monday warned allies of parting ways with the government.

BNP Chairperson expressed on his twitter outlet that they cannot stick to the thought of working with the ruling government, considering such incidents.

He was referring to the recent incident in which 6 people were critically injured simply for protesting peacefully, he said. He shared that BNP has walked out of the NA assembly today. The genocide of Baloch continues till date.

Mr. Mengal while questioning the action that led to the mentioned incident exclaimed that were those the steps for confidence building?

Could Balochistan’s problem be sorted with violence? He said.

Further talking about it, he said their priority is Balochistan and it’s people. While he clearly stated that they will make no compromises when it comes to it.

“How can we be part of this government when such incidents take place? Are these confidence building measures? Is violence going to solve Balochistan’s problem? Our priority is Balochistan and it’s people and I want to categorically state that there will be no COMPROMISE,” tweeted Akhtar Mengal.

https://dunyanews.tv/en/Pakistan/649428-Akhtar-Mengal-warns-allies-of-parting-ways-with-govt

 

[Colorblind Genius]

Looks like ANP is also out.

 

[MenInG]

Bilawal wants more?

==


ISLAMABAD: Deadlock persists in Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and Pakistan People’s Party as Bilawal Bhutto Zardari did not take oath as foreign minister today (Tuesday).

Sources privy to the development said that the consultation regarding Bilawal’s oath as minister in PM Sharif’s cabinet has been done and the decision has been conditionally attached with the provision of ministries to ANP and Mohsin Dawar.

The PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has expressed concern over Shehbaz Sharif’s failure to fulfil promises made with the Awami National Party (ANP) and Mohsin Dawar and Bilawal will take up the issue with Nawaz Sharif.

Sources further said that Bilawal Bhutto Zardari is expected to depart for London tonight, where he will meet former prime minister Nawaz Sharif and discuss the issue with him.

Nawaz Sharif will also host an iftar dinner for the PPP chairman.

Earlier today, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif s 34-member cabinet took oath and due to the illness of President Dr. Arif Alvi Chairman Senate and Acting President Sadiq Sanjarani took oath from the new cabinet.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, speaker of National Assembly Raja Pervaiz Ashraf and other officials also attended the ceremony.

ARY

 

[MenInG]

Mohsin Dawar, MNA from the North Waziristan district and part of the opposition alliance which toppled the PTI-led government, was not included in Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's 37-member federal cabinet which took oath on Tuesday.

According to the reports circulating on social media, the name of Dawar was among the members to be made part of the federal cabinet but a final list issued late Monday did not contain his name.

The no-confidence motion against former prime minister Imran Khan was succeeded with a razor-thin majority and National Democratic Movement (NDM) lawmakers Dawar and Ali Wazir also supported the opposition’s move to de-seat the premier.

MNA Dawar told BBC Urdu that Shehbaz Sharif after taking oath as prime minister told him that he wanted the cabinet to be announced as soon as possible and also offered him to join the cabinet.

Dawar said that his recommendation was also sought for the formation of the cabinet and he was told that the PML-N committee would contact him in this regard.

The lawmaker said he had given his suggestions regarding the cabinet and also stated his position.

Subsequently, he said some senior journalists tweeted that the establishment did not want Dawar to be included in the cabinet and a senior leader of the ruling PML-N also acknowledged that and said that there are “some issues”. At the same time a political party in the PDM — multi-party alliance formed to topple PTI-led government — also opposed his inclusion in the cabinet.

“The political party that was objecting to me joining the PDM is also opposing my inclusion in the cabinet," he said.

Referring to his stance on tribal region, Dawar said he supported the coalition parties in the no-confidence motion on which "assurances were given to us, now those assurances are nowhere to be found”.

It is pertinent to mention here that Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the head of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam, had objected to the inclusion of Dawar in the PDM on the ground that all political parties are included in the PDM while Dawar was attending the alliance meeting as an independent member.

After that, Dawar and his associates formed their own political party — the National Democratic Movement (NDM).

https://tribune.com.pk/story/2353355/who-opposed-dawars-inclusion-in-the-federal-cabinet

 

[MenInG]

PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto has set conditions for his induction into the newly-formed cabinet of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, The News reported Thursday.

According to sources, Bilawal has said that he would be part of the cabinet if Moshin Dawar and members of other coalition partners of Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M) and Awami National Party (ANP) are included in the cabinet.

The PPP chairman is currently in London and expected to meet PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif. The PPP sources said that Bilawal wanted to discuss major issues with Nawaz Sharif who remained active in the formation of the cabinet of the coalition government.

They further added that Bilawal also wanted to take up the issue of non-inclusion of the ANP, BNP-M and Moshin Dawar in the cabinet and wanted that once they were inducted into the cabinet, he would also take the charge of the foreign ministry.

It is worth mentioning that earlier this week, 33 ministers took oath in the first phase amid rumours of differences over portfolios among the partners. The PPP chairman, who was present at the ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadar, did not take the oath.

The cabinet has 30 federal ministers, three ministers of state and three advisers.

Meanwhile, PPP leader Qamar Zaman Kaira has said that the party members took the oath with the permission of Chairman Bilawal Bhutto and they would take decisions in consultations with all partners.

https://www.geo.tv/latest/412726-bilawal-bhutto-zardari-sets-conditions-for-oath-taking

 

[bones]

Bilawal meeting Mia Sharif, what settlement will they come to? It also shows who really is in charge.

 

[Kianig89]

Bilawal meeting Sharif Showbaz caught in honey trap to become PM Diesel demands immediate election PDM already scattered

 

[MenInG]

Former interior minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed on Sunday termed the current country’s situation “disturbing and worrying”, saying that the people who should have been behind bars were being given important posts in the government, while those whose respect was essential for the sake of the country were becoming questionable.

“Those people who should have been in jails are being appointed on important posts and those who needed to be respected by the country are becoming questionable,” the Awami Muslim League (AML) chief said in a statement on microblogging platform Twitter.

Rashid said, “The agents of imperialist forces have exalted their dirty deeds.”

Former prime minister Imran Khan’s call for Islamabad march will surprise the world as it would be fierce. “The incumbent government will be the shortest one in Pakistan’s history,” he predicted.

Express Tribune

 

[Kaddy]

As long as Bajwa and Military establishment want them to.

 

[MenInG]

With Punjab governor’s position off the negotiation table, PPP Punjab will seek more representation in the setup as compensation, a leader of the party told The Express Tribune.

In this regard, PPP will be holding a meeting at Gillani House Lahore, which will be attended by former premier Yousaf Raza Gillani, National Assembly Speaker Raja Pervez Ashraf and other party leaders including Ahmad Mahmood, Qamar Zaman Kaira and Hasan Murtaza where they will finalise the power-sharing formula for Punjab.

The PPP leader said that the party would be pushing for more representation in the provincial setup given that it had withdrawn from the Punjab governor position, adding that the PML-N was now free to appoint whoever they wished.

The source maintained that the PPP was getting three ministries and one position of adviser to CM position as per the understanding. He said the party wanted more special assistant positions and representation in committees such as Baitul Mal, Zakat and others.

Read PPP does not need alliances for LG polls

He said the decision would probably be taken during Friday’s (today’s) meeting, adding that on May 7, the party would be meeting Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz where they will put forward their demands.

He said there was a likelihood that all the ministries would be informally assigned to the leaders so they may start their preparations and get briefing from the departments concerned.

PPP Parliamentary Secretary Hasan Murtaza said the Punjab governor position was with the PML-N and that it had offered the party to have their own man in the slot for “smoother working”.

To a question about the power sharing formula, he said nothing had been decided as yet, adding that once a decision is taken, they would make it public.