After days of intense negotiations, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) have reached a pivotal agreement to form a new coalition government, as announced by senior party leaders. In a joint late-night press conference on Tuesday, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari revealed that PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif is slated to reclaim the role of Prime Minister, while PPP co-chairman Asif Zardari is set to become the President once more.
New government emerges
Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari expressed confidence in the coalition's ability to form the government, citing the failure of Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) to secure a majority in Parliament.
Optimism in the market
Bilawal expressed optimism about the market's response to the coalition, as the country faced a hung parliament post-February 8 elections.
Unity and numbers
Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the unity between the PPP and PML-N, underscoring their collective strength to form the government at the Centre.
Key seat count
The PML-N secured 75 seats, while the PPP garnered 54 seats. Additionally, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P) has pledged support with its 17 seats.
Challenges ahead
Both leaders acknowledged the challenges ahead but affirmed their commitment to tackle them together.
Controversy surrounding elections
The February 8 elections have been marred by controversy, with allegations of widespread rigging. Imran Khan's sister, Aleema Khan, condemned the alleged rigging and the suspension of internet services post-election.
PTI's response
Imran Khan's PTI criticised the newly formed alliance, dubbing it 'PDM 2.0' and accusing them of being 'mandate thieves.'
The coalition's emergence signaled a significant shift in Pakistan's political landscape, setting the stage for a new era of governance and cooperation.
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