Government Formation
RAWALPINDI: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan appears to have adopted a more conciliatory approach by expressing a willingness to engage in talks with the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) regarding the formation of the government at the center, according to sources within the party.
Despite the PTI-backed independent candidates securing the majority of National Assembly seats in the February 8 polls, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has formed a coalition with various political parties, including the PPP, to establish a government at the federal level.
Party sources suggest that Imran Khan is “ready” to initiate discussions with the PPP, marking a shift in his stance against political rivals. It is anticipated that a committee will be established to facilitate talks between the PTI and PPP concerning government formation. This development comes in the wake of PPP Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari expressing a willingness to engage with the PTI for the purpose of promoting a reconciliation process in the country.
Despite these reports, the PTI has officially denied any contact with the PPP for government formation. PTI leader Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif emphasized that Imran Khan has strictly advised against holding talks with both the PPP and PML-N. Saif clarified that the PTI founder’s stance is to sit in opposition rather than forging alliances with the PPP and PML-N.
Simultaneously, the PTI has nominated its Secretary General, Omar Ayub Khan, for the position of the country’s prime minister. This announcement followed a meeting between PTI leader Asad Qaiser and Imran Khan at Adiala jail in Rawalpindi.
Qaiser, appointed to lead negotiations with political parties, will oversee the formation of a political committee to address issues related to alliances and government formation.
The evolving political landscape suggests a dynamic and intricate process as key players engage in discussions, raising questions about potential alliances, opposition strategies, and the formation of a stable government in Pakistan. The developments underscore the importance of ongoing negotiations and the evolving nature of political dynamics in the country.
