ISLAMABAD: After an agreement among the political parties that were part of the previous Pakistan Democratic Movement’s government to form a coalition government at the Center, Asif Ali Zardari, who previously served as President during the Pakistan Peoples Party government, is expected to assume the presidency for the second time.
In a significant political development on Tuesday, a six-party alliance comprising PML-N, PPP, MQM-P, PML-Q, IPP, and BAP announced their decision to establish a government at the Center resembling the Pakistan Democratic Movement’s previous coalition.
During a press conference after a meeting at PML-Q President Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain’s residence, former president Asif Ali Zardari announced the formation of the six-party alliance for the upcoming coalition government.
PPP leader Bilawal Bhutto Zardari previously stated that his party would support PML-N in electing its prime minister without joining the federal government.
Responding to questions about key constitutional positions such as the National Assembly speaker, Senate chairman, and President, Bilawal expressed his preference for Asif Ali Zardari as President, citing the country’s current challenges.
Aside from the presidency, PPP is reportedly interested in the Balochistan chief minister position, with party leader Sarfraz Bugti briefing members on the province’s political landscape. Media reports said that PML-N leadership has agreed to endorse Zardari for the presidency in exchange for PPP’s support for Shehbaz as prime minister.
If the situation remains unchanged, the country may witness a PML-N prime minister and a PPP president.
However, PML-N’s senior leader, Rana Sanaullah, said that PPP did not demand the president’s slot. He emphasized Shehbaz’s experience in working with allies and Zardari’s political astuteness in decision-making.
Sanaullah expressed hope for JUI-F chief Fazlur Rehman’s inclusion in the government.
