PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari claimed that certain elements within the PML-N were undermining Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Moreover, he alleged that those figures were creating divisions between the premier and his political allies.
Bilawal made the remarks while addressing an election rally in Azad Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district. The third phase of the AJK elections is scheduled to take place on August 10.
The statement comes as tensions continue between the PPP and PML-N. Earlier, the parties exchanged accusations following the first two phases of the AJK elections. The PPP alleged widespread rigging and violent tactics, while the PML-N secured major victories in Mirpur and Muzaffarabad divisions.
Bilawal Defends Prime Minister
Bilawal said he was not questioning Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s intentions. Instead, he claimed that influential figures within the ruling party were weakening the prime minister’s position.
He argued that the PPP had not started speculation about the government’s possible collapse. Furthermore, he alleged that internal divisions within the PML-N had fueled such discussions.
Bilawal also claimed that some party members wanted the prime minister to confront not only the opposition but also his coalition partners. Consequently, he said the real dispute existed within the ruling party rather than between political rivals.
PPP Questions Multi-Phase AJK Elections
Bilawal questioned the decision to hold AJK elections in three phases instead of a single day. He argued that phased polling was justified as a way to ensure peaceful, transparent, and fair elections.
However, he alleged that the elections failed to meet those standards. Additionally, he accused the PML-N of manipulating results during the earlier phases, allegations the ruling party has consistently denied.
Polling across AJK is taking place in three phases. Elections in Mirpur and Muzaffarabad divisions concluded on July 27 and August 2, while Poonch and Bagh divisions will vote on August 10.
