PTI gave cold shoulder over govt formation: Khurshid

PPP’s senior Khurshid Shah on Sunday revealed that his party's attempt to engage with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for government formation turned icy after the latter gave the cold shoulder, despite efforts to adhere to democratic norms.

Addressing the media outside the Sindh Assembly, Shah asserted that the PPP currently holds the "key" to democracy, which they wield in the interest of democratic processes.

"We approached PTI first, as per democratic norms, but they refused to cooperate," Shah stated.

Highlighting the PPP's stance on supporting the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Shah affirmed that his party's support comes without any ulterior motives.

"We will vote for their prime minister candidate and will cooperate in legislation and other matters, but we will not take any ministry in the Centre," Shah added.

Responding to recent protests by opposition parties, Shah questioned the motives behind certain demonstrations, particularly mentioning the Awami National Party's (ANP) protest in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

He also downplayed the significance of the Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA), stating that they have never secured more than one seat.

Furthermore, Shah also questioned the legitimacy of the GDA protests, highlighting their inconsistent electoral performance in past.

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Shah criticised the founder of PTI, Imran Khan, for allegedly interfering in Pakistan's internal affairs by writing a letter to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Khurshid Shah confirmed that Yousaf Raza Gillani will be the PPP's candidate for the chairman Senate's seat.

He addressed speculation surrounding the chairman Senate's office, asserting that no such decision has been made regarding Anwaarul Haq Kakar's potential nomination for the position.

Responding to queries about the party's decision to abstain from joining the cabinet, Shah emphasized the PPP's dedication to upholding democratic values.

He stressed that cabinet participation was not obligatory to safeguard democratic principles.

He urged parties questioning the validity of PPP's electoral victory to present evidence in legal forums such as the election commission and tribunals.