With every count of the ballot in Pakistan, a proposed power-sharing formula is being worked out for the formation of the next government setup, with the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) likely to be at the centre of the affair.
Current projections suggest a distribution of seats with PML-N expected to secure between 80 to 90, PPP around 60, and independents limited to 40, according to inputs obtained by CNN-News18. If realised, this arrangement could streamline governance, potentially consolidating power with the country’s powerful military. Analysts suggest this scenario could sideline former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, known for his ability to challenge military authority. The likelihood of his brother Shehbaz assuming the role of Prime Minister again remains plausible.
If the plan materialises, this is how the new cabinet could look like.
- President — From PPP
- Prime Minister — From PML-N (Both Shehbaz Sharif and Nawaz if PML-N gets good numbers)
- Opposition Leader — Bilawal Bhutto in National Assembly
- Chairman Senate — PML-N
- Ahsan Iqbal — Finance Minister/Govt Representative to head SIFC
- Punjab Province — PML-N & CM Maryam Nawaz, Aleem Khan likely to be senior minister
- Sindh Province — PPP
- Balochistan Province — Coalition Government
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa — Power sharing with PTI independents
‘Widespread irregularities’
Earlier, sources close to Imran Khan alleged widespread irregularities during the Pakistan elections, casting a shadow over the democratic process. They told CNN-News18 that the electoral playing field was anything but level and that the bat symbol associated with Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), was taken away from the party.
The international community has expressed shock at these developments, with international media outlets and observers condemning the reported irregularities. Initially, PTI-backed independent candidates were reportedly leading in 90 seats. However, the situation took a dramatic turn with the military’s alleged intervention. The General Headquarters (GHQ) has reportedly assumed direct control over the electoral process in South Punjab and Lahore, with General Asim Munir personally overseeing the handling of results.
Earlier, initial results indicated a major setback for the PML-N, with PTI-backed independent candidates taking the lead. The victory for PTI-backed independents extends beyond the National Assembly, with strong performances reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) and Balochistan as well. Unofficial reports suggest that PTI-backed candidates are leading in 90 seats, placing PML-N in second position with 45 seats.
Comments
0 comment