PML-N’s Bid for Government Formation: Initial Moves and Negotiations
Following Nawaz Sharif’s announcement on Friday of his intentions to form a government at the Centre, he tasked party president Shehbaz Sharif with opening talks with Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), and Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) in this regard.
Initiating Talks with Key Political Players
Shortly after Nawaz made the announcement, Shehbaz reportedly initiated talks with PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Co-Chairman Asif Zardari during a meeting held at the Chief Minister House in Lahore, attended also by PPP leader Faryal Talpur. Shehbaz also spoke with MQM Rabita Committee Convenor Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui by telephone, expressing his desire for talks on government formation, with Dr Siddiqui assuring him that he would consult the party’s Rabita Committee on the matter after the complete election results.
PPP’s Deliberations and Strategy
Indications from some PPP leaders suggest that the party will convene its Central Executive Committee (CEC) meeting to discuss the possibility of forming a coalition government. Throughout the election campaign, the PPP had bitterly criticized the PML-N for its poor performance during the previous coalition government.
Outlook on Post-Election Dynamics
Despite being relegated to the second position, Nawaz delivered his “victory speech” at the PML-N Secretariat in Lahore, as independent candidates supported by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) emerged as the largest group in the incoming National Assembly after Thursday’s vote. Insights from insiders reveal that the PPP leadership is pursuing a two-pronged strategy.
Challenges and Possibilities of Coalition Formation
According to reports, senior PPP leader Khursheed Shah stated that the party would not engage in discussions with PML-N if Nawaz Sharif asserted himself as the prime minister. This implies that the PPP was open to considering a coalition but without Nawaz assuming the role of prime minister. The MQM too has expressed its willingness to the proposition of a coalition government.
Anticipated Government Structure and Dynamics
Given that PML-N enjoys very good relations with JUI-F, an engagement with Maulana Fazlur Rehman would be more of a formality. Amid the PTI’s current strained relationship with the establishment, its prospects for returning to government, despite securing an impressive victory in Thursday’s elections, appear very slim.
Nawaz Sharif’s Vision and Call for Unity
Highlighting the need for all parties to sit together and form a government, Nawaz stressed that the country “cannot afford another round of elections”. He emphasized that all institutions, parliament, judiciary, armed forces, and media should play a positive role in navigating the country out of this quagmire.
Conclusion: Moving Forward in Pakistan’s Political Landscape
Respecting the mandate given to all parties, including independent candidates, Nawaz invited them to join the PML-N in addressing the country’s crises. He urged them to meet the expectations of the masses and suggested that a 10-year period of stability was required to put the country on the right track, reminding people of the party’s past achievements and expressing confidence in its ability to lead the nation forward.
