i NEWS PAKISTAN

MQM takes U-turn on electoral alliance with PML-NBreaking

November 10, 2023

Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) convener, Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, clarified that there is no electoral alliance with the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), instead, discussions have revolved around supporting each other for fair and transparent elections. In an interview with a private TV channel, he emphasized that the joint declaration from the meeting with the PML-N leadership did not mention an electoral alliance. Siddiqui shared insights into the meetings with political leaders, including Nawaz Sharif, highlighting the historical context of MQM’s interactions with various political elites.

He stressed that discussions about contesting elections together, forming a government, and determining the chief minister have not taken place, adding that MQM-P does not traditionally form electoral alliances, but seat adjustments are possible, although not finalized at this stage. Regarding specific government positions, the MQM convener stated that discussions about the chief minister and ministries were not on the agenda, and his party might not include such matters in the agreements at this time.

Reflecting on the meeting's positive atmosphere, Siddiqui highlighted the crises facing Pakistan and the need for cooperation on a joint strategy. He clarified that discussions about contesting elections together, forming a government, and determining the chief minister were premature. The extent of this cooperation will be further deliberated.

 Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)