PTI set to secure majority in Punjab Assembly

"PTI will achieve the 140-mark by tonight," Fawad Chaudhry claims

LAHORE: The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is on the cusp of commanding a majority in the Punjab provincial legislature.

The party's current tally in the provincial assembly stands at 134 with 11 MPAs joining the party to date. However, party leaders have said more alliances are expected. Two MNAs have also joined the party today. The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), on the other hand, won 129.

PHOTO: EXPRESS TRIBUNE



While the latter enjoys a slender lead over the former, the PTI is confident of securing a majority soon. "The PTI will achieve the 140-mark by tonight. Talks to form government are underway," Fawad Chaudhry of the PTI said.

The next 12 hours are expected to be crucial on this account. Sources claimed eight Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) legislators will pledge support to the PTI. "Another four independent candidates will enter party fold soon," Chaudhry said. "The PTI will announce its chief ministerial candidate as soon as a majority has been secured."

Earlier on Sunday, the PML-Q decided to join forces with the PTI after rebuffing overtures from the PML-N. Party heavyweights Chaudhry Shujaat and Pervaiz Elahi are expected to arrive at Bani Gala on (Monday) at 5pm to hold talks with PTI leaders.



The decision to support the PTI was made at a party meeting chaired by Shujaat. Party leaders believe the PML-N only reaches out when expedient. Insiders say a consensus was reached on supporting the PTI in the Punjab and National Assembly courtesy this attitude.