PML-N and MQM Forge Alliance for General Elections in Sindh

In a noteworthy development, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) have declared their collaboration for the upcoming general elections in Sindh. The primary goal of this alliance is to bolster local governments (LGs) nationwide through constitutional amendments.

As reported by Dawn.com, this decision was formalized during a delegation-level meeting at the residence of PML-N leader Ahsan Iqbal. A team from PML-N, including Ahsan Iqbal, Ayaz Sadiq, Saad Rafique, and Bashir Memon, engaged in discussions with the MQM delegation, comprising Farooq Sattar, Aminul Haq, and Mustafa Kamal.

According to the report, MQM presented a draft bill to PML-N, advocating for constitutional amendments aimed at enhancing the political, financial, and administrative empowerment of LGs. The overarching objective is to extend the benefits of democracy for the public welfare.

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Following the meeting, leaders from both parties conducted a joint news conference to reveal details of their collaboration. Ahsan Iqbal underscored their collective effort to secure a substantial number of seats in the National Assembly from Sindh, which has traditionally been a stronghold of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP).

The leaders delved into discussions about the upcoming general elections scheduled for Feb 8, emphasizing their commitment to addressing issues such as inflation, unemployment, injustice, and civic problems in major cities.

Ahsan Iqbal highlighted the significance of the LG system in involving the youth in the democratic process and providing them with training.

MQM leader Farooq Sattar expressed contentment with PML-N’s response to the draft bill, underlining their dedication to presenting the bill to other political parties to seek consensus.

The draft bill, titled the Constitutional (Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Act, 2024, delineates provisions for LG elections, the demarcation of divisions, and the empowerment of LGs across various domains. It suggests the direct payment of 70 per cent of provincial government shares to LGs and the transfer of powers and authorities from provincial government departments to LGs. These powers would encompass socio-economic development, urban planning, education, health, infrastructure, environmental protection, agriculture, and taxation.