PML-N team arrives for talks with GDA, MQM
Political wheeling and dealing has intensified after the announcement of polling date by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). Political parties are reaching out to likeminded groups for possible electoral alliances. Karachi has become the hub of political maneuvering where the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) and the Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) have become the most sought-after parties.
A delegation of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz is expected to arrive in the metropolitan city to explore the possibility of electoral alliances with the Sindh-based parties, as per sources. The delegation will comprise senior PML-N figures, including Ayaz Sadiq and Khawaja Saad Rafiq.
The PML-N delegation is scheduled to hold a crucial meeting with the top GDA leadership, including Pir Pagara. A visit to the Bahadurabad office of the MQM is also part of their itinerary. Last week, the PML-N and MQM announced to contest elections jointly after a meeting between their senior leadership in Lahore.
Read PML-N, MQM-P tie the ‘electoral knot’
Sources said that the MQM will present three constitutional amendments in their charter of demands during the meeting with the PML-N delegation.
These demands include direct allocation of the Provincial Finance Commission (PFC) award to districts, incorporation of institutions under local government, and inclusion of a clause stating that general elections should not proceed until local elections are conducted.
The meeting is expected to delve into other demands, including development projects, water management, transportation initiatives, Karachi Circular Railway plans, as well as model schools and university projects for Sindh, with a focus on Karachi.
Published in The Express Tribune, November 12th, 2023.