KARACHI – Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) has warned of parting ways with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s coalition government if any unilateral decisions are made regarding the coveted position of Sindh governor.
MQM-Pakistan stalwart Farooq Sattar said Sindh governor seat was given to MQM-Pakistan and that it was agreed in discussions with PML-N that Tessori would remain in the role. The threat was given after reports suggested that PML-N-led federal government, in coordination with the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), which governs Sindh, planned to replace Tessori with Bashir Memon, a former FIA chief and PML-N leader.
Tessori dismissed these reports, asserting that he got the backing of PM Shehbaz, President Asif Ali Zardari, and his party, and that he remains committed to his duties. MQM-P also clarified that there has been no consultation or discussion with them on this matter.
Khawaja Izharul Hassan extended support this view, citing a social contract that ensures representation of urban areas through the governor when the chief minister is from a rural area.
On the other hand, Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar indicated that decision on the governor’s post is forthcoming but he denied any plans to appoint Bashir Memon – the former DG FIA.
With recent developments, it was noted that MQM-Pakistan was pivotal in fall of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government by joining PDM no-confidence vote against Imran Khan.
The recent warning sent shockwaves to coalition government as MQM-Pakistan’s departure from coalition could have significant repercussions for incumbent government, which has a slim majority and faces challenges.
Tessori aims to transform Sindh into a model province for IT
