PPP establishing foothold in case PML-N falters

Party insiders say it is important to maintain individual identity

LAHORE:

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) wants to maintain its independent identity so it can capitalise on any sudden change of winds, and that is why it was pushing Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz to honour its promise, party insider sources said. However, according to them, it would not serve as a dealbreaker.

Both PML-N and PPP committees met again recently to work out concerns of the latter regarding unmet promises.

The huddle ended without a conclusive outcome. The next meeting is expected after PPP's CEC meeting.

This is not the first time committees from both sides held talks. Prior to the ongoing dialogue, a round of meetings took place in Punjab.

It was observed that the PML-N-led government in Punjab paid little heed to the PPP's push for the fulfillment of its demands.

Over and above the committee holding talks, the leaderships of both parties met multiple times, but as far as alliance promises go, no development has come forth, observers added.

"This whole farce of PPP wanting some space for itself in Punjab is only a means to ensure an independent identity for it," a PPP leader stated in a conversation with The Express Tribune. "Yes, some party members advocate for a share in the government pie, but the reality remains that PML-N will not cede any political space to anyone. Secondly, even if it agrees to PPP's demands, it would not be politically beneficial."

He said that PPP must remain in a position where it can cash in on PTI's downfall, and keep its options open to avail any opportunity floating on the surface. "We are the second option for voters, the first being PML-N," the party leader admitted.

He said becoming PML-N's B team does not serve the PPP's purpose. "It is important to voice concerns when necessary so that we are not seen as one of them."

He added there were some genuine grievances under discussion; one being the construction of a canal that was bitterly opposed.

He said PPP was aware of PML-N's limitations in its own government, especially when it comes to issues regarding 'the establishment'.

When asked about the PPP taking jibes at the government over internet constrictions, he said the blackout is a classic case that helps one understand their policy. He continued that the PML-N-led government, since the beginning of this year, has been blocking the internet intermittently.

"Yet PPP remains mainly silent over it."

About coming across as weak, the PPP leader said a standoff with PML-N, at this stage, is not even in their favor. "PPP has no desire to topple the PML-N government, but if a situation arises which necessitates another party to take the reins of the country, PPP will not hesitate."

He said they expect to form a government in 2028, and as of now, they have no plans to test their luck.

PPP leader Qamar Zaman Kaira, when asked if raising public issues or demanding that PML-N honor its commitment was a means to retain an independent identity, he answered in the affirmative.

"If talking up purely public issues helps us retain an independent identity, we see no harm in it."

He said that PPP was pushing the government to address issues that concern the public. Kaira added PPP also genuinely wanted PML-N to come clean on the 25-point documented agreement.

"We keep reminding them to fulfil their promise." He said PPP felt the ruling party was now dragging its feet over the matter.

Kaira said that as far as the distribution of water was concerned, it was a crucial issue. "There is a formula for the distribution of water, and no government can change it unilaterally. If Punjab wants to build new canals, the matter should be brought to the Council of Common Interest." He reiterated that there would be no misgivings over this demand.

"We do not want to upset this government in any way. We have high hopes that PML-N will prudently resolve this problem.

About engaging with PTI, he said PPP advocated resolving issues through dialogue and table talk. He said that despite differences, the government should capitalise on the opportunity and hold dialogue with PTI to bring political stability to the country.