Some 18 to 20 independent MNAs-elect assure support to PMLN, PPP

ISLAMABAD: Around 18-20 National Assembly candidates, who won independently, have so far expressed their support for the possible coalition government of Pakistan Peoples Party and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz.

Sources said the candidates, who would join the alliance, belong to Rawalpindi division, south Punjab and Balochistan. They said the PMLN and PPP had contacted several independent members. When the time comes to form the government, all these members will come together in the assembly. But even before it, there is a possibility that they could be brought forward.

Sources in the parties said that the number of independent members joining the alliance could increase further.

The PPP has kept all its options open and is focusing most of its attention on getting support of the independent candidates. According to sources, after the elections, there has been an increase in contacts between the political parties and independent candidates for government formation. When contacted, senior PTI leaders said that it was all nonsense. “Disinformation is being spread about the issue. Any elected member of National Assembly supported by PTI will not back any other party because everyone has seen the fate of former chief ministers Pervez Khattak, Mehmood Khan and other leaders,” they added.