ISLAMABAD: In a bid to defuse growing tensions between allies, Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Tuesday brought leaders of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) and the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) to the table, persuading them to end public criticism against each other. The PMLN assured the PPP of address its reservations.
The meeting, held in the Speaker’s chamber, was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Senator Rana Sanaullah, Federal Minister Rana Mubashir and other senior leaders from the PMLN, while PPP was represented by Syed Naveed Qamar and Aijaz Jakhrani.
According to sources, PPP leaders voiced concern over Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s recent remarks, terming them unhelpful for coalition unity.
The PPP had conveyed its reservation about the recent statements from the PMLN provincial leadership and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and provincial minister saying that negative statements eroded trust and undermined political harmony, urging restraint from all sides to focus on the joint governance agenda.
The PPP wanted that the rules of the games being coalition partners suggested no attack should be made against each other leadership.
Sources said the PMLN leaders assured the PPP of removing its reservations and taking up the PPP reservations with its leadership to sort out the issues. The PMLN also agreed that the exchange of harsh statements had created unnecessary friction and stressed that it was time to prioritise governance and public service over internal differences. Though the PPP termed the meeting with the PMLN positive but conveyed that unless their reservation were removed, the PPP would not be the part of the legislation process.
Sources said Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq expressed hope that the allied parties would “move forward together in the larger national and public interest” by shelving their disputes.
Meanwhile, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leader Qamar Zaman Kaira criticised recent aggressive statements from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) leaders calling such language inappropriate and undemocratic.
Addressing a press conference at the PPP Secretariat in Lahore, he said that Pakistan has long been plagued by crises and efforts have always been made in every era to overcome them.
He expressed concern over certain questions and narratives emerging in recent days which the PPP considers inappropriate. “This is our opinion not advice. We joined the PMLN out of goodwill,” he said adding that they repeatedly tried to ensure the implementation of written agreements though only some were honored.
Despite the partial implementation of agreements the PPP continued to support the government. “We are still trying to move beyond the wounds of the past,” he said but noted that some questions now being raised must be answered.
Kaira urged the PMLN to engage in constructive criticism but avoid reviving the harsh tone of the past. The recent floods were devastating. “We will praise good work and criticise poor performance. It is our democratic right,” he said.
He referred to a controversial remark that suggested, “We will break the hands that rise against us,” as he said such language is not acceptable. Bilawal Bhutto has been trying to move things forward with patience and maturity, Kaira added.
He emphasised that PPP too represents Punjab and has the right to express its views. “When we offer suggestions, you are quick to take offense. Supporting the government does not mean giving a blank cheque,” he said.
He criticised the targeting of the Sindh government when the PPP voiced concerns particularly over the NFC award. “We re not in power sharing but we re supporting you. Don t forget how we stepped back from the government last time.” he said.
Kaira clarified that PPP never intended to worsen the situation. “Our suggestions are being taken as attacks on Punjab which is not the case. We are offering recovery plans for flood affected people how is that an attack,” Kaira said.
He stressed the importance of dialogue noting that the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) is internationally recognized for poverty alleviation. “If you want to give flood victims millions, go ahead but don’t ignore what we have done. You re not just Punjab CM, you re also Nawaz Sharif’s daughter. Such aggressive language is unbecoming,” he remarked.
Kaira concluded by urging restraint and unity. Rulers must speak with calm. “Are we supposed to abandon Punjab. Your words should strengthen the federation. Disagreements must be handled with balance. No one asked you to beg, we simply asked for UN assistance. How is that begging,” he noted.
