Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan has described the alliance between the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) as a political necessity rather than an act of affection, warning that “even a little irresponsibility could derail the system.”
Speaking at a joint press conference with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, Governor Khan said the post-election coalition was essential to ensure governmental stability following the General Elections 2024.
“At least two parties had to join forces for the formation of government,” he stated, adding that the alliance was driven by Pakistan’s national interest, not political love. “Pakistan is our top priority.”
The Punjab governor admitted that party workers from both sides have found it difficult to accept the partnership. “PPP’s participation in the government was out of necessity, and it has cost the party politically,” he acknowledged.
He further said that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had promised to address PPP’s reservations soon, adding that even PML-N’s leadership has accepted that several commitments remain unfulfilled.
On another issue, Governor Khan supported the PTI Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sohail Afridi, being allowed to meet Imran Khan in Adiala Jail, saying, “He should be allowed to meet his leader.”
Meanwhile, Governor Kundi warned that the security situation in KP could worsen without regular intelligence-based operations (IBOs). He stated that nearly 80% of terrorist activities in the province have cross-border origins, blaming India for exploiting Afghan nationals for anti-Pakistan activities.
He also urged CM Afridi to actively attend law and order meetings and suggested forming a jirga to discuss KP’s grievances with the federal government. “We need to raise our voice about provincial rights and the NFC Award since our population has increased significantly,” he said.
Kundi added that tensions between the PPP and PML-N had eased following a meeting between Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, signaling a temporary thaw in coalition friction.
