Pak poll results: Final tally yet to be out but wheeling dealing for possible alliance in full swing

As the tabulation of votes for national and provincial assembly elections continues, key leaders from major political parties convened late on Friday night to explore potential alliances in shaping governments at both the federal and provincial levels. In a statement delivered on Friday evening, PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif designated his brother, former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, to initiate discussions with prominent parties such as PPP and MQM-P, with the aim of forming a coalition. Subsequently, Shehbaz Sharif engaged in talks with PPP leaders Asif Ali Zardari and Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari at the residence of Punjab caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi, according to sources familiar with the matter. Describing the meeting as a significant development, a source from the PPP highlighted discussions regarding election outcomes and the ensuing political landscape. The interaction, though brief, was deemed constructive, with Shehbaz Sharif also reaching out to MQM-P Convener Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui later in the evening, as confirmed by senior MQM-P leader Aminul Haque. While the MQM-P had previously pledged support to Nawaz Sharif for the premiership, the party’s stance may now be subject to reevaluation following the PML-N’s underwhelming electoral performance. Furthermore, Dr. Siddiqui extended an invitation to successful independent candidates to consider aligning with the MQM-P, emphasising the party’s openness to collaboration. Meanwhile, the Majlis Wahdatul Muslimeen (MWM), known for its historical association with PTI, is reportedly exploring avenues for cooperation, potentially facilitating PTI’s pursuit of reserved seats for women and minorities. With discussions ongoing within PTI circles regarding potential affiliations, including with the MWM, the final decision regarding their lawmakers’ course of action is expected to be reached in the near future. However, MWM Political Affairs Secretary Asad Naqvi clarified that no negotiations are currently underway with PTI leadership in this regard.