The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) have announced an agreement to form a coalition government in Gilgit-Baltistan, ending weeks of political negotiations. The announcement was made on Saturday via a post on X by the PPP, stating that after detailed consultations, mutual trust, and consensus between the local leadership and organizations of both parties in Gilgit-Baltistan, a decision was made to form a government under political collaboration.
Key Positions Allocated
Under the agreement, the PPP will secure the seat of chief minister, while the PML-N will be allocated the positions of governor, opposition leader, and deputy speaker of the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly. The PPP statement emphasized that the public mandate formula agreed upon between the two parties is a manifestation of mutual consultation and political harmony.
The statement read: "The PPP and PML-N agree that political stability is essential to address the challenges facing the country and particularly Gilgit-Baltistan, resolve public issues, accelerate the development process, and further strengthen democratic institutions."
Electoral Background
The PPP emerged as the largest party in the 24-member Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly, securing a majority of seats. The PML-N followed with six seats. The Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) emerged as the third-largest parliamentary group after four independent candidates elected from different constituencies joined its ranks.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to work together, rising above personal and party interests for national interest, public service, and the strengthening and prosperity of Pakistan. The coalition government is seen as an important step toward promoting political tolerance, national unity, and democratic continuity, through which effective, stable, and people-friendly governance will be ensured in Gilgit-Baltistan.
National-Level Coordination
The post-election situation at the national level prompted political coordination between parties. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had congratulated the PPP on its position as the leading party in Gilgit-Baltistan and indicated that the PML-N would sit in the opposition while supporting the PPP in forming the government.
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari welcomed the development, describing it as a continuation of democratic norms and expressing gratitude for the cooperation. He said his party would focus on addressing governance challenges and public concerns in the region.
