PTI-Backed Independent Joins PML-N AFter Elections 2024

In a significant setback for the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Wasim Qadir, the newly-elected independent member of the National Assembly from Lahore, officially joined the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) on Saturday.

Wasim Qadir, who previously held the position of General Secretary of PTI Lahore, formalized his switch to PML-N during a meeting with PML-N Senior Vice President and Chief Organiser Maryam Nawaz Sharif. This move comes a day after three other newly-elected independents also joined the PML-N.

Read more: Eight Independents Align With PML-N Post-2024 Elections

During the meeting, which included prominent PML-N leader Malik Saiful Malook Khokhar, Wasim Qadir expressed full confidence in the leadership of PML-N Quaid Nawaz Sharif. He emphasized that his decision was the result of extensive consultations with his constituents and close associates.

Wasim Qadir, an independent candidate backed by PTI, secured victory in the February 8 elections from NA-121, Lahore, obtaining 78,703 votes against PML-N’s Sheikh Rohail Asghar, who garnered 70,597 votes. Notably, Qadir had previously served as the PTI secretary general for Lahore.

In a video statement shared by PML-N on its official handle, Qadir stated, “I have returned to my home for the development and progress of the people of my constituency. I have again joined PML-N.” Maryam Nawaz Sharif welcomed Qadir’s decision.

This move underscores the political dynamics and fluid alliances in the aftermath of the general elections. Wasim Qadir’s switch from being a PTI-backed independent to joining PML-N is a notable development that may have implications for the balance of power and coalition-building efforts among political parties in Pakistan.