The PMLN has assured the PPP that it will consider the latter’s requests concerning Punjab.
Both parties have reached an agreement on a power-sharing arrangement in Punjab and are now preparing reports for their respective leaderships to make a final decision, which is expected to be officially announced today (Monday).
A meeting between PPP and PMLN was held on Sunday to discuss the power-sharing formula in Punjab, with particular focus on issues concerning south Punjab.
Participants from PPP included Raja Parvez Ashraf, Ali Haider Gillani, Nadeem Afzal Chan, and Hassan Murtaza, while PMLN was represented by Punjab Assembly Speaker Ahmed Khan, Rana Sanaullah, Khawaja Saad Rafique, and others.
Sources indicated that PMLN has given assurances to PPP regarding the acceptance of its demands.
Hassan Murtaza, senior leader of PPP in Punjab and part of the negotiating team with PMLN, confirmed progress in the talks with a positive approach, and both parties will now report to their leaderships for a final decision.
Responding to reports suggesting PMLN has agreed to PPP’s demands, Hassan Murtaza clarified that PMLN has acknowledged the demands as legitimate and assured they will be considered.
After the committee meeting, PPP’s senior leader Nadeem Afzal Chan told the media that discussions were constructive and heading in a positive direction. He mentioned PPP’s demand for political space in Punjab, particularly regarding local government elections and the formulation of local government systems, which are subjects under negotiation.
Chan added that a written agreement is being pursued and the final decision will be announced by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari by Monday or Tuesday.
Monitoring committees are set to be established in both parties to oversee the implementation of agreed-upon matters, with meetings scheduled every 15 days.
According to the discussed power-sharing formula between PPP and PMLN, PPP has sought representation in government department committees in Punjab, as well as in market, Zakat, and Baitul Mal committees. Additionally, PPP has requested participation in various government-level committees and task forces, along with administrative empowerment in all districts of Punjab and representation in assembly standing committees.
PPP Secretary General Senator Taj Haider emphasized that while the government has accepted PPP’s demands in principle, they have yet to be fully realized. He expressed concerns over the implementation and commitment of government representatives involved in negotiations, highlighting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s commitment and integrity in honoring agreements.
Senator Taj Haider reiterated PPP’s stance against privatizing national assets like PIA and Steel Mills and emphasized the importance of upholding commitments made during negotiations. He clarified that PPP’s decision not to join the government was driven by accountability to the public regarding budgetary concerns and national interests.
