The political crises have come to an end following the announcement of an official alliance between the two major political parties—Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP)—for the government formation in center and Punjab.
The alliance was announced by PML-N President, Shehbaz Sharif and PPP Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari along with PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari late night on Tuesday.
According to them, the alliance to form the next government was worked out in the “best interest of the nation”.
The alliance comes after no political party secured a simple majority in the February 8 elections, compelling parties to collaborate to attain power.
Following the polls, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-backed independent candidates held the highest number of National Assembly seats (92), followed by the PML-N (79) and the PPP (54).
The delay in reaching an agreement raised concerns, but Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari emphasized that both parties now had the necessary numbers for government formation.
Addressing the media in Islamabad, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari disclosed that Shehbaz Sharif would assume the role of the next prime minister, while Asif Ali Zardari would be the joint presidential candidate for both parties.
He expressed optimism that the new government, formed by this alliance, would address the ongoing crises in the country effectively.
Responding to queries about the nomination of PML-N’s Ishaq Dar as Senate chairman, Bilawal mentioned that decisions were made during meetings and would be announced separately by each party.
He emphasized the efficiency of the coalition-building process compared to previous tenures.
As for portfolios, Bilawal clarified that the PPP had not sought any ministry since the beginning of discussions.
Shehbaz Sharif echoed this sentiment, stating that decisions on other major offices would be made jointly later, guided by PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif and the top leadership of the PPP.
Acknowledging the support of other political entities, Shehbaz thanked the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan, Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party, and the Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid, all of whom would be part of the upcoming coalition government.
He pledged that the alliance would focus on restoring the country’s economy and combating terrorism, aiming for economic progress and development through initiatives to boost agricultural and industrial production.
