In a surprising turn of events, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari announced on Tuesday that he would withdraw from the race for the prime minister, opting instead to throw his party’s support behind Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz’s (PML-N) candidate for the premier’s slot. This decision marks a significant shift in the country’s political landscape and reflects Bilawal’s commitment to prioritizing political stability.
The announcement came following a meeting of the PPP’s high-powered Central Executive Committee (CEC), chaired by Bilawal himself. Addressing the press after the meeting, Bilawal cited the party’s failure to secure a mandate to form a government in the federation as the primary reason for his withdrawal from the race.
Bilawal revealed that the PPP had explored coalition possibilities with other parties, including the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaaf (PTI), but had been met with refusals. With the PML-N extending an invitation for collaboration, Bilawal emphasized the importance of ensuring political stability in the country, leading the PPP to throw its weight behind the PML-N’s candidate for the premiership.
“We don’t want to perpetuate the crisis in the country,” Bilawal stated, emphasizing the party’s commitment to addressing issues of public importance and restoring political stability. He announced the formation of a committee to engage with other political parties for the formation of government and political stability.
While ruling out the possibility of joining the federal government or accepting ministries in the current setup, Bilawal reiterated the PPP’s willingness to support the formation of a stable government on an issue-to-issue basis. This strategic move aims to ensure that the government is formed and political stability is restored without the PPP being directly involved in the administration.
Responding to questions, Bilawal expressed confidence in his father, former president Asif Ali Zardari, as a capable candidate for the presidency, capable of steering the country out of its current challenges. He also addressed concerns raised by party leaders regarding their previous experience with the PML-N during the tenure of the coalition government.
Despite the fractured mandate received in the February 8 polls, Bilawal remained resolute in his commitment to upholding democratic processes and ensuring the formation of a functioning parliament. With independent candidates securing a significant number of seats, followed closely by the PML-N and the PPP, the political landscape in Pakistan remains dynamic, with the potential for further developments in the days to come.
Sources By Agencies
