MQM-P formally joins PML-N led coalition

Both sides sign agreement following talks at Parliament House

ISLAMABAD:

The Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) on Friday formally joined the political alliance between the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) to form a coalition government at the Centre.

Both the parties signed a memorandum for the alliance following their talks at the Parliament House.

After the agreement, the MQM-P announced that it would sit on the treasury benches and fully support the PML-N in the election of the speaker, deputy speaker, and prime minister.

According to insiders, it was agreed in the talks that the local government system, resolution of the problems facing the people of Karachi, and devolution of administrative and financial powers would be part of the agreement.

It was further agreed that a constitutional amendment would be made to ensure the devolution of financial resources from the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award to districts and towns, and legislation would be enacted to ensure local government elections were held after every four years.

“The MQM-Pakistan and the Muslim League-N have signed a memorandum. Both parties have reiterated their commitment to transfer power to the people and empower the masses,” PML-N General Secretary Ahsan Iqbal told the media after the signing of the agreement.

“This is the first agreement of its kind in the political history of the country. It’s a panacea for all ailments,” Mustafa Kamal of the MQM-P said.

“It is a test for all political parties. It is better to transfer resources to the lower level,” senior MQM-P leader Dr Farooq Sattar added.

Talking to the journalists outside the Parliament House, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed hope that after the agreement, the MQM-P would be accommodated on the positions, where no agreement could be reached between the PML-N and his party.