PM slot: PML-N, PPP deliberate alternating terms of three and two years

LAHORE/ISLAMABAD: According to sources familiar with the matter, discussions have taken place between the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) regarding the potential appointment of prime ministers from their respective parties for alternating terms of three and two years under a proposed power-sharing arrangement.

This idea, suggesting the division of the prime ministerial tenure, was broached during their initial meeting on Sunday subsequent to the February 8 elections. It forms part of their endeavors to forge a coalition government at both the federal and provincial levels.

The sources indicated that a similar power-sharing scheme was established by the PML-N and the National Party (NP) in Balochistan back in 2013, where two chief ministers from these parties alternated halfway through the five-year term.

The first gathering, held at Bilawal House in Lahore, witnessed an agreement in principle between the two parties to collaborate for the sake of the nation’s political stability post the general election. Attendees included PPP-Parliamentarian President Asif Ali Zardari, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, and former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif from the PML-N.

A joint statement released subsequent to the meeting affirmed that it took place in a constructive atmosphere, with a commitment to prioritize the nation’s interests above all. The leaders of both parties engaged in substantial discussions concerning the current political landscape and the necessity of joint efforts to enhance the nation’s welfare.

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Key topics discussed included an assessment of Pakistan’s overall situation, future political strategies, and recommendations aimed at fostering stability and progress. Both parties reiterated their pledge to lead Pakistan towards prosperity and resilience, vowing not to disappoint the electorate.

As for the inside story of the meeting, the PML-N extended an official offer to the PPP for coalition formation, briefing them on their ongoing discussions with independent lawmakers and the MQM-Pakistan.

However, a sticking point emerged regarding the prime ministerial position, with PML-N insisting on retaining it while PPP’s Central Executive Committee (CEC) had already nominated Bilawal for the post.

In light of this, the parties explored the possibility of sharing the prime ministerial term between their respective nominees.

They have also proposed the formulation of a five-year roadmap based on the Charter of Democracy signed in 2006, with the PPP set to present its power-sharing proposals at the upcoming CEC meeting.