Sibling meeting focuses on coalition rift, governance issues
On the eve of his Malaysia visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a private meeting with his elder brother and PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif at their Jati Umra residence. The focus was the escalating tensions between PML-N and PPP over flood relief and canal disputes, and Shehbaz asked Nawaz to intervene.
Sources say the PM emphasized that PPP is a coalition partner and that public bickering damages governance. He wanted Nawaz to counsel CM Maryam Nawaz to adopt a more reconciliatory tone toward PPP leadership. The two also reviewed PPP’s grievances on administrative and development issues and agreed unity was essential for government stability.
Officially, PML-N stated that Shehbaz briefed Nawaz on his foreign visits and updates on Azad Jammu & Kashmir negotiations. The statement omitted mention of the coalition strife.
Maryam rebuffs PPP, PM’s Malaysia mission approaches
The row began with PPP demanding flood compensation and evolved into a conflict over water rights on six Indus canals. Maryam Nawaz refused to apologize for her remarks, while PPP accused her of lacking legitimate support in Punjab and using divisive rhetoric. PPP’s Nadeem Afzal Chan called Maryam the “real problem” in Punjab’s flood crisis response.
Meanwhile, Shehbaz will depart with Deputy PM Ishaq Dar, federal ministers, and top officials to Malaysia on October 5–7. The trip underscores deepening ties between Pakistan and Malaysia. Though an invitation was extended to Nawaz, he said he would visit at a more fitting time.
