Bilawal expresses discontent with PM over lack of progress in Punjab agreement

PPP chief voices concern about inflation and issues in power sector, particularly provision of relief only to Punjab

ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Thursday expressed disappointment to Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif regarding the lack of progress on an earlier agreement addressing issues faced by two allied parties in Punjab. Bilawal stressed that the absence of consultation on key matters was straining the alliance.

During a meeting at the PM House, Bilawal voiced his concerns about inflation and issues in the power sector, particularly the provision of relief only to Punjab, despite the entire country facing inflated power bills. He emphasised that the federal government must play a crucial role in addressing national issues.

"PPP has expressed its concerns that it is not being consulted or taken into confidence on key issues," PPP spokesperson Shazia Marri told The Express Tribune. She noted that the PPP felt sidelined, particularly in Punjab, with the party's proposals being ignored.

Marri highlighted that the PPP had been consistently sidelined, particularly during the budget preparation, which she said violated the agreement reached between the two parties post-elections. She added that earlier agreements concerning Punjab had not yet been addressed.

In return for supporting the PML-N on budgetary and other issues, the PPP had linked its support to receiving a greater share in Punjab's administration and development budget. The PPP also demanded that local bodies' elections be held without delay and that ongoing development schemes continue to receive funding.

"Greater consultation is required on all issues," Marri emphasised, adding that the PPP believes in sustainable solutions over temporary relief. She argued that equality in dealing with crucial issues, like providing relief in power bills, is essential.

The meeting between Bilawal and PM Shehbaz comes amid ongoing tensions between the PPP and PML-N over government policies, with leaders from both parties recently exchanging heated remarks. However, a PML-N leader revealed that crucial legislation is expected in the coming days, with further discussions scheduled for a meeting between coordination committees from both parties at Lahore's Governor House by Sunday.

An official statement following the meeting confirmed that Bilawal and the PPP delegation met with PM Shehbaz and other PML-N leaders to discuss the country's overall political situation.

PM Shehbaz reiterated that the PML-N is working together with allied parties for the country's development and prosperity.

Key attendees included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazir Tarar, and Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah.