Top leaders from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) have expressed reluctance to assume federal leadership, describing it as a “crown of thorns” they are unwilling to wear.
Khawaja Saad Rafique, via X, emphasized that creating a federal government is a collective parliamentary duty, not solely the responsibility of PML-N. He urged PTI-supported independents, who succeeded in the February 8 elections, to lead the formation of a central government in collaboration with the PPP, citing the absence of an outright majority for any party.
Javed Latif from Sheikhupura, another prominent PML-N figure, expressed his hope for the party to allow the election victor to attempt government formation. He suggested such a move could thwart plans to sow discord within the country. He promised revelations about the orchestrators of the electoral rigging on February 8, once the party officially decides.
In Lahore, a strategic meeting of PML-N’s senior leadership, led by Nawaz Sharif, debated focusing on Punjab rather than striving for federal governance. The consensus leaned towards refraining from federal ambitions due to the unrealistic demands of coalition formation.
Participants, including key figures like Shehbaz Sharif, Maryam Nawaz, and Ishaq Dar, proposed that forming a provincial government in Punjab with the support of independents was more feasible, with Dar noting that their numbers in Punjab had risen to 154, simplifying the formation of the provincial government.
The assembly concluded that Punjab should be the primary focus, notwithstanding the ongoing economic crisis compelling some members to consider federal governance as a means to national recovery.
Ahsan Iqbal later declared that despite these deliberations, PML-N resolved to form the central government, maintaining principled integrity without compromises. This stance, he shared with Daily Jang, reflects the party’s commitment to national development and stability, underscoring the decision to form the government in both the Centre and Punjab.
