Shehbaz set to reclaim PM throne as PML-N, PPP forge coalition

After days of deliberation, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) have reached an understanding and decided to form a coalition government at the Centre.

The breakthrough comes after intensive negotiations between PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and PML-N President and Prime Minister-designate Shehbaz Sharif.

The high-level discussions took place at the residence of Senator Ishaq Dar, where the leaders engaged in crucial talks to solidify the terms of the alliance.

Read more: Bilawal stands firmly by PPP’s stance on govt formation

In a joint press conference alongside Shehbaz Sharif, Asif Ali Zardari, Ishaq Dar, and other leaders from both parties following the meeting, Bilawal affirmed that Shehbaz Sharif is set to assume the role of prime minister once more, while PPP Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari is slated to become the president.

The PPP chairman emphasised the urgent need to tackle the nation’s crises collectively. “Every Pakistani is facing challenges, and it is our responsibility to navigate through these difficulties with the strength bestowed upon us by Allah,” he remarked.

Bilawal expressed gratitude for the diligent efforts of the joint committees comprising members from both PPP and PML-N. He conveyed his satisfaction that these committees have effectively completed the necessary groundwork, ensuring that the coalition has secured the required numbers to proceed with forming a government.

“For the upcoming presidential election, we express our gratitude to PML-N for their support towards our candidate, who will be Asif Ali Zardari. Together, we will unite in the fight against the prevailing crises, with the aim of fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the Pakistani people. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Shehbaz Sharif and his entire team for their collaboration,” stated Bilawal.

In response to a query, Bilawal remarked, “Considering Pakistan’s history, our agreement has been swift compared to others. Political dialogue has taken place, and we have reached an accord to form a coalition government together. Designations will be announced shortly, but I believe people are more interested in stability for Pakistan. I am hopeful that the markets will also respond positively to this news.”

On this occasion, Shehbaz Sharif expressed the rationale behind the decision to form a coalition government.

He acknowledged the recent efforts made by independent candidates backed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to explore government formation options.

Shehbaz stated that they had sent a message to independent candidates a few days ago, welcoming the possibility of them forming a government, with PML-N prepared to play its role on the opposition benches, in accordance with the Constitution.

Also read: PML-N choices for finance minister limited

However, the independent candidates, even after forming alliances with the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) and Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM), failed to secure the necessary numbers.

He expressed gratitude to Bilawal for his dedication to the cause and acknowledged the contributions of his brother, Nawaz Sharif, in making the coalition government a reality.

Shehbaz emphasised the unity between the two parties, noting that they were well-positioned to form the government at the Centre. He extended thanks to MQM-P, IPP, and PML-Q for their support in this coalition.

Addressing pressing issues, Shehbaz stressed the resurgence of terrorism in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) and Balochistan, underscoring the alliance’s commitment to combating these challenges. He said that economic issues were also a focal point, with the coalition determined to address them collectively.

Shehbaz highlighted the importance of providing opportunities and vocational training to the youth for a prosperous and stable future.

Commenting on the nation’s reliance on loans for 76 years, Shehbaz called for concerted efforts to eliminate this dependency. He emphasised the need to leverage all available resources to overcome challenges and steer Pakistan towards prosperity.

Shehbaz underscored that the coalition represented a blend of youth and experience, forming a potent force united in the pursuit of a better Pakistan.

In response to a query, the PML-N president clarified that PPP had not requested any ministry, highlighting the routine negotiations between parties.

He acknowledged that concerns were addressed through ongoing discussions, emphasising the collaborative efforts that brought them together today.

Shehbaz stressed that the unity forged during the 16-month government paved the way for their current collaboration, united in their commitment to addressing the concerns of the Pakistani people. He reassured, “We will not disappoint the people of Pakistan.”