On Tuesday, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) unveiled its plans to form governments both in the Centre and Punjab, aligning with the Majlis-e-Wahdatul Muslimeen (MWM) and the Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
Presently, PTI-backed candidates command over 90 seats in the National Assembly, followed by the PML-N with 75, and the PPP with 54, out of a total of 266 seats in the lower house. The inclusion of 70 reserved seats raises the total to 336. Securing a simple majority necessitates at least 169 seats in the National Assembly.
Upon joining forces with the MWM, PTI-backed candidates stand to gain additional reserved seats proportional to their total National Assembly representation, potentially exceeding 20 seats. To obtain these reserved seats, PTI-affiliated candidates must furnish affidavits to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) affirming their alignment with the MWM, followed by the MWM head’s written confirmation to the ECP acknowledging their acceptance of independent candidates.
The announcement by PTI came shortly after JI Deputy Amir Liaquat Baloch affirmed ongoing discussions between the two parties regarding government formation. Baloch engaged in telephonic dialogue with PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar, Ali Amin Gandapur, and Senator Azam Swati, leading to JI’s endorsement for collaborative action.
JI ready to work with MWM
Sources indicate an imminent meeting between the leadership of both parties in Islamabad to deliberate on further details and explore government formation or opposition roles.
“We are in communication with PTI leaders. If PTI requires JI’s assistance in safeguarding their independent candidates, we are ready to extend our support,” Baloch conveyed to Express News. “As a political entity, we remain receptive and have not set forth any demands. PTI is yet to articulate its requirements.”
In response to PTI’s declaration, JI’s deputy emir conveyed receipt of PTI’s intent to form the government in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. “We will deliberate on this internally before responding,” he added.
More to read:How will Pakistan form a coalition government after split election results?
Baloch emphasized JI’s preparedness for an unconditional alliance and willingness to serve as a platform for PTI’s independent candidates if required. Addressing potential concerns regarding an alliance with MWM due to religious disparities, Baloch affirmed JI’s readiness for collaboration, citing amicable political relations with MWM.