in a surprising turn of events, the PML-N and MQM have revealed their intention to jointly participate in the forthcoming general elections. This announcement follows the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and President Arif Alvi’s recent agreement on setting February 8, 2024, as the polling date, stirring up political activity among major parties.

As the electoral race intensifies, the rivalry between the Nawaz-led PML-N and PPP has gained momentum. The PPP has alleged a covert alliance between PML-N and the current caretaker government.

Moreover, the PPP has expressed its willingness to form an electoral alliance with the PTI to counter the PML-N, a former ally.

Today, a delegation from MQM, including Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Farooq Sattar, and Mustafa Kamal, convened with PML-N leaders Nawaz Sharif and Shehbaz at the party’s Central Secretariat in Lahore. Following the meeting, a joint statement declared their agreement on a joint strategy to resolve public issues and steer the country towards development.

A six-member committee will be formed to draft a comprehensive charter addressing Sindh’s issues and urban areas, presenting final proposals within 10 days. Former federal minister Saad Rafique of PML-N mentioned their past interactions with MQM during the PDM government, indicating a shared desire to contest elections together.

Rafique emphasized discussions on political, economic, and legal policies with open doors for other parties, aiming for a larger national interest. MQM’s Sattar stressed that post-election planning was crucial, addressing unemployment, inflation, and poverty, advocating for a larger political alliance.

Mustafa Kamal highlighted Karachi’s pivotal role in resolving Pakistan’s economic crisis, emphasizing the city’s rightful share. He proposed a “charter for national interest” to be crafted by MQM and PML-N, inviting other political parties to partake in this approach for public trust restoration.