ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) have reached an agreement to oust the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government through a no-confidence motion, following in-depth consultations with President Asif Ali Zardari regarding the region’s political situation.
A committee comprising Ahsan Iqbal, Rana Sanaullah, and Amir Muqam briefed the president on recent developments in AJK’s political landscape. Sources indicate that the discussions centered on restoring stability and exploring the prospects of an in-house change in the region’s administration.
After the meeting, senior leaders from both parties addressed the media and confirmed that key decisions had been made concerning the current AJK government. Former Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf revealed that the Prime Minister had established a committee to address the ongoing political crisis in Azad Kashmir. “Today, the committee briefed the President on the evolving situation,” he stated.
PPP leader Qamar Zaman Kaira announced that opposition parties had agreed to introduce a no-confidence motion against the existing government in AJK. “We had a comprehensive discussion with the President. The PML-N has decided to remain in opposition, and it’s time to move forward with new elections,” Kaira explained.
He emphasized that the primary aim is to restore political stability and resolve the issues confronting Azad Kashmir. “Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is currently in Saudi Arabia, and we will finalize our next steps after consulting him,” Kaira added. Kaira also highlighted mutual respect among the opposition parties, stating, “We have accepted each other’s internal decisions, and this consensus was achieved through understanding.”
Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah confirmed that the PML-N would not participate in the AJK government and expressed support for the PPP’s no-confidence move. “We have kept the President informed about our decisions. The current AJK administration has failed to deliver on public expectations,” he said. Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal echoed similar sentiments, criticizing the existing setup for its inability to perform effectively. “A committee was formed to resolve the crisis, and both the PML-N and PPP have agreed to bring about change through a no-confidence motion,” he stated.
Iqbal clarified that the PPP holds the mandate to form the next government in AJK, while the PML-N intends to play a supportive role from the opposition. “Our focus remains on good governance, development, and the prosperity of Azad Kashmir,” he added.
He further noted that both parties are committed to strengthening AJK’s political and administrative systems, reaffirming their dedication to the welfare and progress of the people in the region.
