The decision to leave the government and sit on the opposition benches if the MQM’s demands were not met was taken at a joint meeting of the Coordination Committee of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement held on Monday in London and Pakistan.

It was noted at the meeting that the MQM had always given full support to the PPP and President Asif Zardari for the continuation and promotion of democracy in the country but the PPP, despite assurances, had not fulfilled the valid demands of the MQM relating to public welfare.

It was noted during the meeting that the tolerance shown by the MQM was misconstrued as weakness by the PPP leaders, who had been reneging on their promises despite giving firm assurances.

It was also decided in the meeting that the MQM would continue to support the good actions of the government for the continuity of democracy even after sitting on the opposition benches. The MQM would, nevertheless, oppose all the anti-people actions of the government and inform the public about them.

The Coordination Committee said it wanted to inform its voters and ‘Haq Parast’ people that the MQM may not be able to go along any further with the PPP given the present circumstances. However, it asked office-bearers, workers and honest people to wait for future line of action and remain united in the meantime. It also asked them to be ready to offer any sacrifices, like they had in the past.The Coordination Committee has sent its unanimous decision to the MQM founder and leader Altaf Hussain for endorsement.