PTI-backed independent candidates, according to Shehbaz, can establish government if they have a majority
Shehbaz Sharif, the president of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), has stated that independent candidates who are supported by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) are able to form a government in the center if they hold the necessary number of seats in the National Assembly.
At a press conference on Tuesday in Islamabad, he declared, “PTI-sponsored candidates are welcome to form a government if they can show majority [in the National Assembly].”
If candidates supported by the PTI are able to secure a majority in the lower chamber of parliament, the PML-N president declared that his party is prepared to take a seat in opposition.
“We will accept them [PTI government] happily if they fail to [form government] then we will use our Constitutional and legal right,” the leader of the PML-N stated.
He said that his party is the biggest in the Center and that the PML-N holds a majority in Punjab.
He remarked, “We now have 80 members after independents joined our party,” and he predicted that more independent lawmakers would join the PML-N in the days to come.
Shehbaz stated that PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif remains the party’s nominee for prime minister even though the party was unable to win a majority in the polls.
“I remain steadfast in my belief that Nawaz Sharif will secure the position of prime minister four times,” he continued.
According to the PML-N president, everyone will be invited to build a coalition government in the center by his party.
“To advance in the greater interest of the nation, we must work together.”
Shehbaz’s news conference coincides with concerns being expressed regarding the transparency of the February 8 elections, which were tainted by claims of irregularities and rigging following an unusually long wait for the results and the suspension of mobile communications on election day.
Protests against purported election cheating in favor of the opposition candidates are being staged periodically around the nation by a number of political groups, principally Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
With 92 seats, independent candidates from the Imran Khan-led PTI lead, followed by the PML-N (79) and PPP (53).
During today’s news conference, Shehbaz refuted the claims that his party was the beneficiary of electoral manipulation and mentioned that members of his party had to deal with intimidation and fabricated cases when the Imran Khan-led government was in power.
“Impossible new IMF package”
The leader of the PML-N stated that Pakistan is currently experiencing its greatest challenges in its history and urged sacrifice for the good of the nation.
In response to a query regarding the PPP and PML-N’s power-sharing arrangement, Shehbaz stated that the process of consultation for the formation of a government is now in progress.
Shehbaz claimed that even with the majority, the PML-N chieftain chose to consult with influential politicians.
“It is not about setting up a government; rather, it is about saving Pakistan and putting it on the path to development.”
Shehbaz stated that his party complied with the popular vote.
“The International Monetary Fund [IMF] will need to be approached by the new government for another bailout package.”
I am a dedicated student currently in my seventh semester, pursuing a degree in International Relations. Alongside my academic pursuits, I am actively engaged in the professional field as a content writer at the Rangeinn website.
