PML-Q gains ‘importance’ in wake of Senate polls

The lawmakers of Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) have gained importance in the wake of Senate polls scheduled to be held next month.

Half of the Senate members are retiring next month. Currently, the opposition has a majority in the house but after the election, it is expected that the strength of government and opposition members in the 100-strong house would become almost equal.

Sources said that after the election, the ruling coalition, comprising PTI, Balochistan Awami Party (BAP), Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P), Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) and the PML-Q, may rise to 49.

The PML-Q is also expected to make a major announcement with regard to the Senate elections.

Sources said that in case of agreement on the name of Sadiq Sanjrani for the seat of senate chairman, the deputy chairman will be from the PTI’s side and that the name of Senator Mirza Muhammad Afridi is in consideration for the purpose.

On the other hand, the parties in the opposition alliance, PDM, are also holding consultations on the senate polls.

The PPP will forward the name of its candidate to the PDM for the seat of senate chairman while consultations will be held with the PML-N or JUI for the post of deputy chairman. In case of agreement, the joint candidates for the post will be announced.

From the treasury benches, Prime Minister’s Adviser on Parliamentary Affairs Dr Babar Awan, who has established himself as an expert on complex legal issues, and PTI Chief Organiser Saifullah Niazi, seen as an influential member of the party’s core committee, are also in the fray.