Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has confirmed that the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) will remain a key ally of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), despite the latter gaining a simple majority in the National Assembly after the Election Commission’s reserved seats ruling. Speaking to journalists at Lahore’s Data Darbar shrine, Dar acknowledged PPP’s crucial support in forming the government post-2024 elections and stated that PML-N values the partnership. He emphasized that the Bilawal Bhutto Zardari-led party stood by the government during challenging times and would not be sidelined now.
When asked about speculation regarding a potential meeting between PML-N President Nawaz Sharif and imprisoned PTI founder Imran Khan, Dar dismissed the reports as “sponsored news” and mere “wishful thinking.” He asserted that the law would take its course and there was no need for such a meeting. However, Dar reiterated PML-N’s openness to collaboration with all political forces, including opposition parties, for national progress.
The ruling alliance’s parliamentary strength rose to 235 seats after the ECP, following the Supreme Court’s verdict, denied PTI its share of reserved seats for women and minorities. This granted PML-N-led coalition a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly. Dar clarified that PPP has not demanded additional ministerial portfolios, signaling smooth cooperation between the allies.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, another senior PML-N leader, echoed Dar’s sentiments, describing past collaboration with PPP in the PDM government as a “good experience.” He expressed optimism about joint efforts to advance Pakistan’s national agenda but noted that no formal roadmap for renewed cooperation has been finalized. The statements highlight the ruling party’s focus on political stability amid ongoing challenges.