Shehbaz invites Raisani to join PML-N

Raisani says decision to be made after consultations with peers; presents demands for Balochistan to PML-N

LAHORE:

Former BNP leader Nawabzada Lashkari Raisani on Friday said that he presented demands before PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif for the development and progress of Balochistan.

Meanwhile, he would consult with his peers before arriving at a conclusive decision on the invitation to join the party will be taken in consultation with my peers.

Mr Raisani met former premier Shehbaz Sharif at the latter's residence ahead of PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif's visit to Balochistan. Mir Humayun Aziz Kurd, another former BNP leader, joined the meeting.

The PML-N president welcomed Mr Raisani and extended an invitation for him to become a part of the PML-N.

Talking to The Express Tribune, the former BNP leader disclosed that he has not made a definitive decision about joining PML-N. He asserted that his final choice would be made following consultations with his colleagues.

Contrarily, insiders from PML-N disclosed that a formal announcement was imminent and has been strategically reserved for Nawaz Sharif's forthcoming visit to Balochistan.

Raisani said that the discussion was primarily on the issues of the province as for them “Balochistan issues were far more important than becoming a part of any alliance”.

He said it was imperative for national parties to recognise the problems of his province, adding that they want leaders to work for the issues of his province not those who solely rely on condemnations. “Issuing condemnations will not resolve the issues.”

He said he informed Shehbaz of their main issues and demands.

He said their primary issues were the implementation of the 18th Amendment, land grabbing, missing persons, devolution of powers and resources, illegal fishing and for institutions to work within their ambit.

He said Baloch people must be included in the development of Gwadar and development projects within the province should provide an opportunity for jobs.