Zardari, Fazl discuss cooperation for Senate polls

LAHORE: JUI-F Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Friday called on PPP Co-chairperson Asif Ali Zardari at the Bilawal House Lahore.

The meeting was part of Fazl’s increasing contacts with political leaders following the revival of the MMA to create better opportunities for the religious alliance in the next polls.

Fazl was accompanied by Hafiz Riaz Durrani, but he held a one-on-one meeting with the former president for about one hour. Zardari also hosted a lunch for Fazl.  

According to sources, both leaders discussed matters of mutual interests, possibilities of cooperation in the next elections and cooperation for the Senate elections under the Balochistan formula.

They expressed concerns over the disrespect shown by PTI Chief Imran Khan and AML leader Sheikh Rasheed for the parliament at a public meeting on The Mall. They resolved to work together for strengthening the parliament and reviving its due role in consolidating democracy in the country.

Fazl is known as trouble-shooter and has always been at hand whenever the ruling alliance needed him. Notwithstanding his pragmatist approach and political sense, he remains a turban-wearing head of an alliance of religious-political parties.

This is a perception that can cost Zardari dearly, not least after his flop show with Tahirul Qadri in Lahore.