The Pakistan Peoples Party submitted a no-confidence motion against Anwarul Haq, Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, signalling a political shift in AJK. The PPP also announced Faisal Rathore as its candidate for the AJK Prime Minister post.
PPP cites internal consultations
PPP leader Raja Pervaiz Ashraf addressed journalists in Muzaffarabad and confirmed the decision. He said the party took the step after thorough internal consultations. He added that the region holds a special place in the party’s political vision. He stressed that the leadership acted for the welfare of the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Ashraf stated that the decision aligns with the party’s wider strategy for the region. He expressed hope that the motion would bring political stability. He also pointed out that the situation in Kashmir required firm political action.
PPP strengthens its position
The PPP moved to consolidate its position soon after President Asif Ali Zardari outlined the party’s strategy last month. The party increased its strength in the Legislative Assembly when 10 Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf lawmakers joined it on October 26. The lawmakers met Faryal Talpur at Zardari House in Islamabad before announcing their decision.
The PTI lawmakers included Muhammad Hussain, Chaudhry Yasir, Chaudhry Muhammad Akhlaq, Chaudhry Arshad, and Chaudhry Muhammad Rasheed. Others were Zafar Iqbal Malik, Faheem Akhtar Rabbani, Abdul Majid Khan, Muhammad Akbar Ibrahim, and Asim Sharif Butt. Their inclusion gave the PPP a strong advantage in the assembly.
PML-N offers conditional support
Later, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz announced its support for the no-confidence motion. However, the party declined to join the government. Sources said the PML-N agreed to support the move on the condition that early elections would follow. The sources added that PML-N ministers would resign after the vote. They also said the party would sit on the opposition benches.
PPP claims majority support
The no-confidence motion requires support from 27 lawmakers for a simple majority. However, with backing from the PML-N, the PPP claimed it had secured 36 members. Sources later said the number rose to 37. The increase strengthened the party’s confidence in winning the vote.
