KARACHI: The Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan’s (MQM-P) Coordination Committee decided to sit on opposition benches if the PML-N does not accept its ‘principled stand.’
According to sources privy to the MQM-P coordination committee’s meeting, nothing has been finalized between the PML-N and MQM-P on the ministries in the federation.
A meeting of the MQM-P coordination committee convened with its Convener Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui in the chair while Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, Senior Deputy Convenor Syed Mustafa Kamal, Dr Farooq Sattar, Deputy Convenor Anees Qaimkhani, Khawaja Izharul Hasan and other members of the committee participated in it.
The participants discussed matters related to negotiations with Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) regarding the formation of government in the Centre.
The committee’s opinion was sought on whether the party should join the government or sit on the opposition benches. The coordination committee suggested joining the opposition benches if MQM-P’s ‘principled stand’ is not accepted.
It is to be noted that the MQM-P has sought Kamran Tessori’s continuation as the Sindh governor as part of the proposed power-sharing arrangement. The meeting was also briefed about constitutional amendment the party had sought for formation of government.
The negotiating team informed the meeting that they have placed their demands in front of the PML-N and they will not back down from their demands regarding the constitutional amendments.
They said the PML-N top leadership had assured that they will make contact soon with a positive response.
The sources informed the committee members said they want such ministries in the federation to solve the problems of citizens of Sindh, especially Karachi.
The committee also asked to resolve matters with the PML-N before the swearing-in ceremony of the National Assembly. A final decision would be taken after negotiations with PML-N in the coming days.
Two days earlier, MQM-P and PML-N ‘reaffirmed’ their commitment to putting the interests of the country ahead of political expediency.
The affirmation came during a meeting between MQM-P delegation which called on PML-N President and prime minister-designate Shehbaz Sharif.
The conversation focused on the current state of affairs in the country and potential paths for political collaboration. In praising the MQM-P for their positive strategy, Shehbaz Sharif said, “Respecting the vote means respecting the mandate of all parties.” It is our collective responsibility to guide the nation through its economic difficulties.”
The MQM-P delegation praised Shehbaz Sharif’s inclusive leadership during his 16-month term in the PM office. “It is hoped that under his stewardship, Pakistan and its citizens will overcome their challenges,” they said.
Later, the MQM-P spokesperson informed the media that the coordination committee meeting discussed the post-election scenario and talk process with the PML-N, adding the coordination committee gave various suggestions on the current political situation in the federation and the province.
He further stated that the committee was agreed to continue the struggle for the stability of democracy and basic democratic rights in the country.
