ISLAMABAD: PML-N and PPP have reached a consensus on a power-sharing arrangement to form the coalition government.
According to the agreed formula, Shehbaz Sharif is slated to be nominated for the position of Prime Minister, while Asif Ali Zardari is expected to contend for the presidency.
The deal, finalized late Tuesday night by the coordination committees of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), brings an end to days of uncertainty following the hung national assembly resulting from the February 8 elections.
The announcement of the agreement was made by the PPP chairperson in a late-night press conference held in the federal capital, with Shehbaz Sharif, accompanied by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, affirming that their parties possess the necessary numerical strength to form the government, with additional support from smaller parties.
With PML-N securing 79 seats and PPP trailing with 54, along with the backing of four smaller parties, they command a comfortable majority in the 336-seat legislature.
The delay in government formation in the country, home to 241 million people, has raised concerns amid economic turmoil, escalating militant violence, and pressing issues necessitating decisive governance.
Key points of the power-sharing arrangement include the PPP abstaining from cabinet participation under Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership but securing prominent constitutional positions, such as the presidency.
Additionally, the PPP will forgo ministerial portfolios in the Punjab cabinet.
On the other hand, the PML-N will receive support from the PPP in establishing governments both at the federal and provincial levels, with the latter also endorsing the former’s nominee for the Chief Minister’s position in Balochistan.
The coordination between the two parties will involve Shehbaz Sharif exercising discretion in forming his cabinet, with committees being instituted for decision-making processes. Leadership will announce nominees for chief minister positions in Sindh and Balochistan.
