The MQM-Pakistan has purportedly requested a substantial share from the PML-N in the federal government.
It’s been reported that the MQM has put forth its demand for the Sindh governorship along with five ministries at the Centre. Additionally, they have stressed the need for amendments to the local government system and the constitution.
These terms were apparently discussed during negotiations between the two parties regarding government formation at the federal level. The meeting took place at the ministers’ enclave in Islamabad.
Both parties explored various options for collaboration within the federation. The MQM-P also urged the PML-N to allocate a significant portion of the central government to them.
Among their demands, the MQM has insisted on the Sindh governorship and underscored the importance of local government system reforms and constitutional amendments.
Furthermore, MQM leaders are continuing discussions internally after engaging with the PML-N. They assert that securing a significant position is the prerogative of a party that secured 17 seats in the National Assembly.
The party contends that for effective collaboration, larger parties must be receptive as well. The MQM has also requested five federal ministries from the PML-N and provided a list prioritizing ministries.
Additionally, reports indicate that the MQM has asked for control over the ministries of port and shipping, IT, communication, labor and manpower, and overseas Pakistanis at the federal level.
MQM issued a statement following the meeting, stating that the second round of talks between the two parties occurred in Islamabad on Wednesday afternoon.
Representing the MQM side were Sindh Governor Kamran Tesori, Senior Deputy Convener Mustafa Kamal, and Dr. Farooq Sattar, while the PML-N delegation included Ishaq Dar, Ayaz Sadiq, Azam Nazeer Tarar, and Muhammad Ahmed Khan.
Both parties agreed to continue reconciliation and cooperation for political, democratic, and economic stability in the country, according to the MQM statement. Government formation will proceed based on ensuring equitable distribution of resources and power, it added.
The statement also emphasized the importance of protecting the rights of urban areas in Sindh, particularly focusing on restoring the economic significance of Karachi. Further meetings between the delegations are expected to advance the government formation process from both sides, the statement concluded.
