On Friday, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) conveyed optimism regarding a potential breakthrough following a meeting between the party’s leadership and the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F). Nawaz Sharif, the PML-N supremo poised to lead the next coalition government, met with JUI-F Emir Maulana Fazlur Rehman at his residence in Islamabad.
Despite the historical alliance between the JUI-F and the PML-N and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), the JUI-F has staunchly insisted on occupying the opposition benches, contesting the legitimacy of the February 8 elections, alleging rigging.
JUI-F refrained from voting for the prime minister and president, and abstained from the National Assembly speaker and deputy speaker election. Khawaja Saad Rafique from PML-N, part of the delegation, conveyed a hopeful message to journalists, urging faith in Allah and hinting at forthcoming positive news.
The election for the prime minister is scheduled for Sunday, with Nawaz’s younger brother, former premier Shehbaz Sharif, poised to secure the position, given the party’s sufficient votes and favorable position.
Rana Sanaullah from PML-N, in a conversation with reporters, hinted at disclosing meeting details later but expressed optimism about a favorable outcome. He emphasized Maulana’s leadership and the history of facing challenging situations together, expressing the desire for continued guidance.
Sanaullah clarified that Nawaz’s visit to Fazl wasn’t solely about seeking votes, although sources suggested that securing JUI-F’s support was indeed discussed. The one-on-one meeting primarily covered the ongoing political situation, as per Sanaullah.
