MQM-P demands Sindh’s governorship in exchange for backing PML-N in centre

The Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) has demanded the governorship of Sindh as one of several conditions for supporting the formation of a coalition government led by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).

While addressing the media, MQM-P seniour deputy convener Mustafa Kamal said, "Governor Kamran Tessori is delivering an outstanding performance; hence, it is fitting for him to continue in his role.”

Kamal claimed that the MQM-P holds a substantial mandate in Karachi and Hyderabad, constituting 80% and 100% respectively, and insisted that the governorship in Sindh "rightfully" belongs to the party.

The MQM-P leader said that his party had announced support for the PML-N ahead of the elections. 

He emphasised that forming a government “through numerical strength alone is insufficient; effectiveness in governing is equally crucial.”

The former Karachi mayor clarified the MQM-P's stance on not seeking ministries but rather supporting the government, saying that a government formed solely based on numbers may not prove to be “a bed of roses.”

According to reports, MQM-P has also articulated its demand for legislation facilitating the direct allocation of the NFC award to the local government in Sindh.

The single largest party of the parliament, PML-N has amplified its efforts to garner political support for forming the government.

In a midnight presser on Tuesday, PML-N and PPP agreed on a power-sharing formula but the latter denied taking any key portfolio in the centre.

According to the agreement, PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif will be the candidate for the PM slot and PPP co-chairman Asif Zardari will contest for the post of President.