PML-N parliamentary leader in the Senate, Irfan Siddiqui, on Monday firmly rejected speculation about any plans to replace President Asif Ali Zardari, stressing that no such proposal is being considered by the government.
Speaking in a statement, Siddiqui praised Zardari’s performance, noting that he is responsibly fulfilling his duties as the constitutional head of the state.
“President Zardari is performing his role with dedication,” Siddiqui said. “There is absolutely no discussion or move to replace him.”
Denies rumours of Nawaz meeting Imran Khan
Siddiqui also dismissed recent claims circulating in the media that PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif intends to visit Adiala Jail to meet PTI founder Imran Khan, calling these reports “completely baseless and unfounded.”
He criticised parts of the media for resorting to sensationalism, arguing that with PTI and its founder no longer in the political spotlight, the media had turned to spreading gossip instead of practicing responsible journalism.
Alliance with PPP remains intact
Addressing questions about the partnership between PML-N and its coalition ally, the PPP, Siddiqui reaffirmed that both parties continue to work together in government, even if there are disagreements on specific policies.
“The PPP is standing with us. Supporting the government does not mean agreeing on every single issue,” he explained, underlining that differing opinions do not threaten coalition unity.
Siddiqui further clarified there is no plan to invite Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan back into the PML-N fold.
Elections to proceed as scheduled
Speaking about the electoral roadmap, Siddiqui assured that general elections will be held as planned once the government completes its constitutional term.
“The elections will take place after the term ends,” he said, reaffirming the government’s commitment to upholding democratic norms.
Earlier, when questioned by a journalist about rumours of removing President Zardari and installing the army chief as president via constitutional amendment, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi had also dismissed such claims, urging people not to pay heed to speculation on social media.
Naqvi highlighted that for the first time in the country’s history, politicians, the government, and the military establishment are all on the same page, adding that some elements appear unsettled by this unity. “Let’s set aside politics for a couple of days,” he remarked.
