Rival factions of the Pakistan Muslim League (PML) have come to the rescue of the Pakistan People’s Party-led government, at least to the extent that they will not be part of any move to dislodge the present set-up.
Beleaguered Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani on Monday held crucial meetings with PML(N) and PML (Q) leaders to seek their support against a possible no-confidence mot-ion. The PPP lost its majority in Pakistan’s National Assembly on Sunday when key ally Muttahida Qaumi Move-ment decided to part ways. The MQM’s withdrawal left the PPP with 163 votes against the 172 requ-ired for simple majority.
The PPP claims it enjoys the confidence of several Opposition members and will not lose its majority. Mr Gilani met Punjab chief minister Shahbaz Sharif (PML-N) in Lahore looking for support and was assured the PML(N) would not be part of any move to topple the government.