PPP to lead GB govt under power-sharing deal with PML-N
Why this matters: local context for readers following news across Pakistan and the region.
GILGIT: The PPP on Saturday announced that it would form a government in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) with the support of the PML-N, mirroring the arrangement at the federal level. After elections on June 7, the PPP emerged as the largest party, with 12 seats in the 24-member GB assembly. The decision was announced by PML-N GB president Hafeez Hafeezur Rehman and PPP GB president Amjad Hussain at a press conference following a consultation meeting between the parties’ leaders. According to a press release issued on Saturday night, the parties decided to form a coalition government in Gilgit-Baltistan based on “mutual trust, consensus and consultation”. The statement added that both parties had expressed their determination to move forward together, prioritising political stability, public welfare and the promotion of democratic values. According to a statement, local PPP and PML-N leaders agreed on a proposed power-sharing formula following a consultation meeting, under which the region’s chief minister will be from the PPP, while the governor of GB, as well as the leader of the opposition, will be from the PML-N. Additionally, the post of deputy speaker of the assembly will also go to the PML-N. The public mandate formula agreed upon by the two parties is “a manifestation of mutual consultation and political harmony”. Both parties agreed that political stability is essential to address the challenges facing the country, particularly GB, resolve public issues, accelerate the development process and further strengthen democratic institutions. The two parties also reiterated their resolve to work together in the national interest and for public service, as well as the strength and prosperity of Pakistan, above personal and party interests. The statement added that the formation of a joint government was being considered an “important step towards promoting political tolerance, national unity and democratic continuity, through which effective, stable and people-friendly gover