Karachi: A leaked audio circulating on social media has shed light on the challenges facing the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) during its negotiations with the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) for government formation.
In the audio clip, Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, a member of MQM-P’s negotiating committee, expressed concerns about the party’s role in the Shahbaz Sharif-led coalition. He highlighted MQM-P’s past support for the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government and its subsequent decline in voter support, questioning the benefits of aligning with PML-N.
Tessori mentioned MQM-P’s reduced electoral performance and dissatisfaction with the proposed government roles, cautioning against potential consequences of forming an alliance.
In a separate audio, Mustafa Kamal, another senior MQM-P leader, discussed the party’s interaction with PML-N. Kamal highlighted PML-N’s reluctance to engage with MQM-P and shared insights into the PPP’s efforts to sideline the party. He emphasized the need for transparency within MQM-P’s coordination committee regarding negotiations.
Confirming the authenticity of the audio clips, Kamal addressed concerns about internal leaks within MQM-P. He underscored the routine nature of the discussions and accused MQM-L of infiltrating the coordination committee and orchestrating the leak.
MQM-L, however, denied involvement in leaking the audio and refuted allegations of interference. MQM-L’s information secretary dismissed the accusations and attributed MQM-P’s electoral success to external influences.
The controversy underscores the complexities of coalition-building in Pakistani politics, highlighting tensions and power struggles within political parties. As negotiations continue, transparency and unity remain pivotal for MQM-P’s future endeavors.
